A deliciously spicy Shiraz from Alvi's Drift. With this wine, Alvi once again demonstrates the winery's true potential.
The origin of the name Alvi's Drift
Alvi is short for Albertus Viljoen, the official first name of the owner of the South African winery Alvi's Drift in Worcester. Today, the third generation is at the helm, but it all began in 1928. Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe was a gentleman farmer in Worcester, about a two-hour drive from Cape Town. Because his Alfalfa estate straddles the Breede River, he built a drift (Afrikaans for bridge) in 1928 to provide easier access to both plots. This water crossing soon became known as Alvi's Drift. Alvi van der Merwe now uses this name as a tribute to his grandfather for the wines they market.
The family business has a total of 420 hectares planted with grapes. They still farm, owning 4,000 cows, 200,000 chickens, and orchards growing citrus and peach trees. Alvi's brother Johan manages the farm, and Alvi himself oversees the vineyards. A total of 19 grape varieties are grown in the Alvi's Drift vineyards, including this Alvi's Drift Signature Shiraz. The vineyards are located in the heart of the Breede River Valley in the Worcester district. Together with their highly dedicated team of winemakers, Alvi produces exquisite wines that have earned international acclaim.
The vinification of Alvi's Drift Shiraz
The grapes are first crushed. Immediately after crushing, the juice is drained to enhance the wine's color and body. The wine was fermented on the skins and hand-pumped five times a day to gently maximize color extraction. After fermentation, the wine is aged for eight months in French and American oak barrels, where it also completes malolactic fermentation.
This Shiraz has a ruby red color. The wine is elegant and beautifully balanced. Aromas of red berries, white pepper, chocolate, and a hint of vanilla emerge upon swirling the glass. All these aromas are reflected in the full flavor of this Alvi's Drift Shiraz. The finish is surprisingly long and pleasant. The oak, fruit, and tannins intertwine beautifully. This subtlety and elegance are rare for a New World wine.
2022
