Glenelly Glass Collection Shiraz 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Simonsberg sub-region of Stellenbosch, located within South Africa’s celebrated Western Cape, is known for producing wines of exceptional quality and finesse. This region benefits from a Mediterranean climate, where cool Atlantic breezes from nearby False Bay temper the warm days, creating ideal conditions for ripening Syrah. The combination of sunshine and cooling influences ensures the development of concentrated flavors while retaining freshness and natural acidity.

The soils in Simonsberg are predominantly decomposed granite with clay, providing excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to sustain the vines through dry periods. For the 2020 vintage, an exceptionally warm and dry spring led to even bud burst and steady vine growth. The season was marked by moderate temperatures during ripening, allowing the grapes to develop complex aromas, balanced sugar levels, and lively acidity. These factors combined to produce a vintage celebrated for its concentration, structure, and overall harmony.

Winemaking

The Glenelly Glass Collection Shiraz is crafted entirely from 100% Syrah, reflecting the estate’s dedication to producing varietally pure wines. After meticulous hand-harvesting, the grapes were sorted and placed whole into tanks, preserving the integrity of the fruit. Fermentation was initiated naturally, with daily pump-overs (2–3 times) to ensure gentle extraction of color, flavor, and tannins.

Following fermentation, the wine was left on its skins for an extended three-week maceration, a technique that enhances its velvety texture and aromatic depth. The wine then underwent malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, where it was aged for 12 months. This careful ageing process imparted a subtle oak influence, enriching the wine with spice and complexity without overpowering its fruit-driven character. The result is a finely balanced wine that exemplifies Glenelly’s philosophy of harmony between tradition and innovation.

Tasting Notes

• Color: A radiant deep purple hue with a vibrant, youthful intensity.
• Aroma: A captivating bouquet of floral tones, complemented by hints of white pepper spice, dark berries, and a touch of plum.
• Palate: On the palate, this wine is both rich and elegant, offering flavors of spicy plum, dark berry, and a whisper of chocolate. The mid-palate is supported by a velvety texture, with refined tannins and a lingering finish infused with spice.

Did you know?

The Glenelly Estate was founded by May de Lencquesaing, former owner of Bordeaux’s Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. Her vision was to bring French winemaking savoir-faire to Stellenbosch, creating wines that embody both local terroir and European elegance. The Glass Collection is inspired by May’s lifelong passion for glass art, reflected in the label design and the delicate balance of the wines.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary: The wine’s spice and dark fruit notes harmonize beautifully with the herbaceous and smoky flavors of grilled lamb.
• Beef Bourguignon: The wine’s velvety texture and savory complexity enhance the dish’s rich, slow-cooked flavors.
• Duck Breast with Plum Sauce: The wine’s plum and berry notes echo the dish’s fruity and savory profile, creating a seamless pairing.
• Aged Manchego Cheese: The nutty and caramelized tones of Manchego balance the wine’s spiced richness and supple texture.

History of Glenelly

Glenelly Estate was founded in 2003 by May de Lencquesaing, a Bordeaux wine icon and former owner of the esteemed Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. Driven by her belief in the exceptional potential of Stellenbosch, May brought her decades of experience and a passion for winemaking to the Cape.

The estate was previously a fruit farm, but May transformed it into a world-class vineyard and winery. Under her leadership, Glenelly became known for its commitment to sustainability and producing wines that express the terroir of Simonsberg. The winery building, an architectural marvel, blends seamlessly with the natural landscape and houses state-of-the-art facilities designed to craft wines of unparalleled quality.

May de Lencquesaing’s vision was not only to create exceptional wines but also to leave a lasting legacy by fostering South Africa’s prominence in the global wine industry. Today, her family continues to oversee the estate, honoring her legacy of excellence.

Region and Vineyards

Located in the Simonsberg sub-region of Stellenbosch, Glenelly benefits from a Mediterranean climate with cooling breezes from False Bay. This unique microclimate ensures slow and even grape ripening, resulting in wines with concentration and balance.

The estate spans 128 hectares, with 65 hectares under vine, primarily planted with Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, alongside Chardonnay and Syrah. The soils are predominantly decomposed granite with clay components, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral complexity of the wines.

Glenelly’s sustainable vineyard practices, including cover cropping and integrated pest management, are a testament to their commitment to preserving the environment and crafting wines that embody the purity of the land.

Wine Range of Glenelly

Glenelly’s portfolio showcases both red and white wines with a focus on Bordeaux blends and Syrah. Their flagship wine, Lady May, is a Bordeaux-style blend known for its elegance, age-worthiness, and refined structure. The Glass Collection, named after May’s passion for glass art, offers varietal expressions such as Syrah, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon that are approachable yet complex.

The estate’s wines consistently receive high acclaim, reflecting Glenelly’s dedication to meticulous winemaking and the expression of Stellenbosch’s terroir.

Did you know?

May de Lencquesaing’s passion for glass art is evident throughout Glenelly Estate. The winery features a glass museum, showcasing pieces from her personal collection, including works by René Lalique and Salvador Dalí. This unique aspect of Glenelly highlights the fusion of art, history, and winemaking.