Kleinood John Spicer Syrah 2018

Kleinood Estate is a boutique wine farm situated on the slopes outside Stellenbosch, where granite-rich soils and cooling influences from False Bay help shape wines with structure, freshness and detail. The estate is known for its meticulous small-batch approach, with careful vineyard management and restrained winemaking aimed at expressing site rather than excess extraction or oak influence.

The John Spicer range is named after the original owner of the farm and represents Kleinood’s flagship red wines. The 2018 Syrah reflects a measured, elegant interpretation of the variety, drawing inspiration from Northern Rhône styles while remaining firmly rooted in Stellenbosch terroir. Careful maturation in French oak supports the wine’s texture and savoury complexity without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.

Colour:
Deep ruby red with dark purple undertones.

Nose:
Aromatic layers of blackberry, black cherry and plum are complemented by cracked black pepper, violets, smoked meat and subtle fynbos notes.

Palate:
Medium- to full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and a poised, savoury structure. Dark berry fruit is balanced by notes of olive tapenade, spice and graphite, while fresh acidity keeps the palate focused and energetic. The oak influence is restrained, adding texture and subtle warmth rather than sweetness.

Finish:
Long and savoury, with lingering pepper spice, dark fruit and mineral notes on the finish.