At a glance

Producer

Durbanville Hills

Region

Durbanville, Western Cape, South Africa

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-$28 (USD, average retail, ex-cellar historical data)

Tasting profile

Matured dark plum and black pepper, notes of leather, tobacco; softer fruit, integrated oak.

Evolution: Developed earthy and spicy tertiary notes, dried berry character, less pronounced primary fruit.

At peak: When at peak: vibrant black fruit, floral and spicy lift, velvety tannins. Now: more savory, with diminishing freshness.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Moderate; softening with age

Alcohol

Moderately high (13.5%-14.5%)

Aging potential

Good in early years; most bottles now in decline phase

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2016 to 2019

Optimal window

2014 to 2021

Current status

Late in drinking window; potentially past peak, depending on storage

Current condition

Approaching end of ideal life; tertiary complexity likely, but freshness may fade

This Shiraz, vinified in the approachable but structured 'Rhinofields' style, aged well for 7-10 years but typically loses vibrancy after a decade. As a 2011, it reached peak drinking several years ago and now shows significant secondary/tertiary notes unless unusually well cellared.

Food pairing

Roast lamb, beef stew, venison, smoked sausage, hard aged cheeses, North African tagines.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine is 14 years old and has moderate tannins that are softening, which can benefit from decanting to enhance its aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Producer participates in eco-sustainability programs: resource-efficient winery, water conservation, biodiversity projects, reduced pesticide use, lightweight bottles, waste management.

Durbanville Hills, as part of Distell Group, maintains high sustainability standards for regional context. Accredited under South Africa’s IPW scheme, which ensures responsible vineyard and winery management but falls short of full organic or biodynamic certification. Winery invests in biodiversity, energy-efficiency, social responsibility, and eco-friendly packaging, though global export adds carbon cost. Score reflects strong regional sustainability plus limitations of non-organic viticulture and international shipping.