Damascene – Stellenbosch Syrah 2023

Overview

The Stellenbosch Syrah 2023 is one of the most sculpted and expressive interpretations of the variety within the Damascene range, combining density, elegance and vibrant mineral definition. Sourced from rocky, windswept slopes in Bottelary and Polkadraai Hills, this Syrah displays a darker, more structured personality compared to Swartland or high-altitude versions, while retaining the purity and finesse characteristic of the estate. The 2023 vintage delivered gradual, balanced ripening, resulting in aromatic precision and a finely drawn palate. The wine expresses both Mediterranean warmth and remarkable tension, offering depth, freshness, longevity and a clear sense of place. Contains sulfites.

History of the Wine

The history of this cuvée reflects the broader evolution of Stellenbosch, a region that has progressively refined its approach to Syrah, moving from power toward purity. Damascene focuses on hillside parcels historically known for producing the most structured red wines of the district, particularly those shaped by constant ocean breezes and granite-rich terrains. Early micro-vinifications demonstrated the potential for a more chiselled, mineral, savoury style that speaks to the old geological foundations of the area. Over the years, precision in canopy work and harvest timing has allowed the estate to elevate the Syrah profile, capturing a balance between richness, aromatic lift and structural restraint. The 2023 vintage continues this trajectory with remarkable harmony.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vineyards lie on decomposed granite, ancient sandstone and iron-rich patches that give the Syrah its firmness and distinctive mineral drive. Naturally low yields arise from old vines and poor, stony soils that intensify flavour concentration. Damascene practices minimal-intervention farming, encouraging biodiversity, maintaining healthy microorganisms and allowing natural cycles to shape soil vitality. Manual work ensures optimal light exposure and canopy balance, essential in a region where intense sunlight meets marine winds. This synergy produces small, compact clusters with dark fruit tones, spicy aromatics and the refined structural character that defines Stellenbosch’s best Syrah. Contains sulfites.

Cellar Approach

The winemaking aims for precision and clarity, seeking a fine-grained texture and firm but proportionate structure. Depending on the parcel, a portion of whole clusters is included to add aromatic lift, spice and verticality, while destemmed berries contribute suppleness and seamless tannins. Fermentations occur spontaneously in concrete tulip tanks and neutral vessels, ensuring the fruit remains unmasked by external influences. Extraction is gentle, emphasising infusion over force, preserving freshness and linearity. The wine matures in large foudres and neutral barrels that shape the tannins without adding weight or flavour. Bottled unfined to maintain authenticity and detail. Contains sulfites.

Tasting Notes

Colour: deep ruby with purple hues and a compact, luminous core.
Nose: blackberry, black pepper, blue flowers, graphite, black olive and a bright citrus edge.
Palate: intense yet energetic, with dark fruit, mineral tension, silky tannins and a long, saline and refined finish.

Food Pairing

Superb with lamb chops, entrecôte, light game, aromatic stews, roasted mushrooms, mature parmesan, rich ragùs and smoked-accent Mediterranean dishes. Contains sulfites.

Technical Sheet

• Variety: 100% Syrah

• Region: Stellenbosch (Bottelary, Polkadraai Hills)

• Soils: decomposed granite, ancient sandstone, iron-rich intrusions

• Viticulture: minimal intervention; fully manual management

• Fermentation: spontaneous; portion whole-cluster; concrete & neutral vessels

• Aging: large foudre and neutral barrels

• Bottling: unfined

• Alcohol: 13%

• Serving temperature: 15–16 °C

• Contains sulfites

Damascene Winery

Damascene Winery

History

The Damascene winery was founded in 2017 through the collaboration between winemaker Jean Smit and wine entrepreneur David Curl, marking a new chapter in South African fine wine. After key experiences at leading Cape estates, Smit envisioned a project capable of expressing the depth and purity of the country’s most remote and fascinating terroirs. The name “Damascene” refers to a moment of revelation that inspired him to create a winery both artisanal and visionary. From the start, the ambition was clear: to craft wines that embody the true identity of South African vineyards, allowing nature itself to be the primary storyteller.

Vineyard Philosophy

Damascene’s viticultural philosophy is rooted in an ongoing search for the purest and most untouched terroirs across the Western Cape, with parcels located in Stellenbosch, Swartland, the Ceres Plateau and other areas defined by intense microclimates and ancient soils. The vineyards are farmed with minimal-intervention methods, relying on natural forces such as constant winds, organic soil management, self-produced mulch and meticulous manual care. The team collaborates closely with local farmers—guardians of long-standing traditions—emphasizing biodiversity, sustainability and authenticity. Every plot is cultivated to reflect its geological uniqueness and natural balance.

Cellar Approach

In the cellar, Damascene follows a method combining precision and restraint. Grapes are hand-harvested, cooled and transferred by gravity into concrete fermenters to preserve their freshness and integrity. Fermentations occur spontaneously with indigenous yeasts, contributing to aromatic depth and purity. Reds mature in large Austrian oak foudres, while whites rest in smaller neutral vessels, always with the lightest possible touch. Sulphites are used sparingly, added only before bottling to maintain a transparent expression of each vineyard’s character. Contains sulphites.

Values and Vision

Damascene represents a philosophy of winemaking that goes beyond technique, turning each bottle into a portrait of South Africa’s landscapes. The team travels thousands of kilometres to select high-altitude sites, isolated parcels and soils with rare geological identities. A portion of production is dedicated to experimentation, exploring new styles and interpretations of traditional varieties. The winery’s identity is built on a contemporary, curious and environmentally respectful vision, blending strong stylistic personality with absolute fidelity to the origin of the grapes. The result is a range of vibrant, precise and expressive wines that stand among the most compelling in the new South African wine scene.