Hartenberg Gravel Hill Shiraz 2018

Region and Vineyards

Gravel Hill is a unique vineyard site located at the lower end of Hartenberg Estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Since its first vintage under Carl Schultz in 1993, the parcel has demonstrated distinct and consistent quality. The soils here are composed of Kroonstad-type ferrous gravel, locally known as koffieklip—rich in iron and exceptionally well-drained. These conditions create significant vine stress, promoting the development of small, concentrated berries with intense aromatic and flavour complexity.

The Stellenbosch region, with its Mediterranean climate moderated by cool Atlantic breezes, provides optimal conditions for the slow and even ripening of Syrah. Combined with Hartenberg’s sustainable viticultural practices, this terroir imparts a unique sense of place to Gravel Hill Shiraz, marked by signature floral, mineral, and spice notes.

Winemaking

The 2018 Gravel Hill Shiraz underwent traditional fermentation with careful temperature management and gentle extraction to preserve purity and finesse. The wine was matured for 19 months in French oak barrels, with 40% new wood and 60% second-fill, using standard 225-litre barriques to ensure balanced oak integration and minimal overpowering of the wine’s natural expression.

The finished wine was bottled at 14% alcohol by volume, with 1.9 g/L residual sugar, 5.9 g/L total acidity, and a pH of 3.46—metrics that suggest a precise balance between richness, freshness, and structure.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with violet reflections, suggesting both intensity and finesse.
• Aroma: Lifted bouquet of violets and rosemary, interlaced with cinnamon, white pepper, and hints of dried herbs.
• Palate: Rich and layered, revealing blackberry compote, smoky undertones, and warm spice. The mouthfeel is structured yet elegant, supported by fine-grained tannins that carry a long, persistent finish. A wine of complexity and age-worthiness.

Did you know?

Gravel Hill was originally vinified separately due to the unusual character of its fruit, which stood out in blind tastings as early as the 1990s. It has since become one of South Africa’s most acclaimed single-vineyard Syrahs, receiving 96 points from Tim Atkin MW for the 2018 vintage and consistent accolades over the past two decades.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Fillet of kudu with red wine jus: The gamey richness of kudu is an ideal partner for the wine’s structure and spice.
• Rare roast sirloin: A classic red meat pairing that complements the Syrah’s intensity and fine tannins.
• Wild mushroom risotto: Earthy, umami-rich flavours harmonize beautifully with the wine’s floral and savoury notes.
• Charcoal-grilled duck breast: The smoky character of the wine echoes the seared crust of the duck, while its acidity cuts through the fat.

History of Hartenberg

Hartenberg’s viticultural legacy dates back to 1692, when the original land grant was awarded under Cape Governor Simon van der Stel. The estate underwent several ownership changes throughout the 18th and 19th centuries before establishing itself as a prominent winegrowing property.

In the 1920s, the property was purchased by Maurice and Eleanor Finlayson, pioneers who replanted vines and laid the groundwork for modern viticulture on the farm. Their legacy would be continued in earnest by the McKenzie family, who acquired the estate in the 1980s and invested heavily in vineyard improvement and cellar innovation.

Under the guidance of Carl Schultz, who joined in 1993 as winemaker and later became cellar master, Hartenberg developed an international reputation for site-specific Syrah, with Gravel Hill Shiraz becoming one of South Africa’s first and most acclaimed single-vineyard wines. The estate also produces distinguished Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Bordeaux blends, and Chenin Blanc, among others.

Throughout its history, Hartenberg has remained family-owned and has consistently prioritized sustainability, soil health, and environmental stewardship, preserving vast natural areas on the property.

Region and Vineyards

Hartenberg is situated in the Bottelary Hills, a sub-region of Stellenbosch, famed for its complex geology, elevation, and maritime-influenced climate. The estate’s 170 hectares include over 60 hectares under vine, with the remainder dedicated to biodiversity conservation and fynbos restoration.

The soils at Hartenberg range from deep, red granitic loam to iron-rich koffieklip, offering distinct profiles that are matched carefully to specific grape varieties. The vineyards benefit from cool sea breezes that prolong ripening, ensuring vibrant acidity and fine phenolic maturity. The estate follows sustainable farming principles, with minimal intervention and a focus on soil vitality.

Wine Range of Hartenberg

Hartenberg is best known for its Shiraz collection, which includes the Estate Shiraz, the flagship Gravel Hill Shiraz, and the The Stork, a limited cuvée named after a WWII fighter pilot and family patriarch.

The estate also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a Bordeaux-style blend named Doorkeeper. On the white side, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, and a Chardonnay round out a balanced portfolio, all crafted with precision and elegance.

Each wine reflects the estate’s emphasis on terroir expression, age-worthiness, and classic structure.

Did you know?

Hartenberg’s Gravel Hill Shiraz was one of the first single-vineyard Syrahs in South Africa and has been served at state banquets and global wine showcases as a benchmark of South African excellence. The estate is also home to one of the oldest underground cellars in the Cape Winelands, maintaining ideal conditions for barrel maturation.