The Society's Exhibition Syrah, Polkadraai Hills 2025

In the last decade, the Polkadraai Hills ward in southern Stellenbosch has become a remarkable source of spicy, thrilling syrah – an expression which appeals to lovers of the perfumed styles of Côte-Rôtie in the northern Rhône. Sixth-generation farmers Danie and Hugo Carinus of Carinus Family Vineyards own some of the most sought-after vineyards on these decomposed granite hills - which enjoy the cooling ocean influence of False Bay - and are responsible for growing this wine for The Wine Society, with Lukas van Loggerenberg making it in his cellar on their behalf. Previously we have bought this wine under the Carinus Family's own label, and two different vintages have been crowned Wine Champions in the last two consecutive years. The new 2025 - an incredible South African vintage - is spicy and perfumed with intense, beguiling aromas of red plum, blackberry, violet, and that wonderful distinctive white- and pink-pepper character. As always, this is a medium-bodied red, fresh and crisp, with vibrant acidity and fine, powdery tannins. The fruit was entirely destemmed and then around 30% of the stems were added back into the ferment. This is a luminous and bright syrah and we're very proud and excited that it is now wearing the Society's Exhibition label.