Hartenberg Shiraz 2017

Region and Vineyards

Situated in the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch, Hartenberg Estate benefits from some of the most advantageous viticultural conditions in South Africa. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, moderated by breezes from the Atlantic Ocean. These cooling effects ensure a long ripening period, ideal for retaining acidity and aromatic complexity in Shiraz grapes.

Hartenberg’s Shiraz vineyards are planted predominantly on deep, red, decomposed granite soils, which are well-draining and low in fertility—perfect for reducing vigour and intensifying berry concentration. The estate has been cultivating Shiraz since the 1970s and is celebrated as one of the pioneering forces behind the variety’s reputation in the country. Low yields and meticulous canopy management further ensure fruit quality and phenolic ripeness.

Winemaking

The 2017 vintage of Hartenberg Shiraz is vinified with precision and a nod to traditional craftsmanship. Fermentation is temperature-controlled to preserve primary fruit aromas while allowing for adequate extraction of tannin and colour. Post-fermentation maceration enhances structure and depth.

Aged for 21 months in French oak barrels (30% new, 40% second-fill, balance third-fill), the oak regimen contributes finely integrated spice, subtle vanilla, and structure without overpowering the fruit. The final composition includes 14.0% alcohol, 2.1 g/L residual sugar, 5.9 g/L total acidity, and a pH of 3.42—balanced and built to age gracefully.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby core with a garnet rim, indicating both concentration and evolution.
• Aroma: Layers of black fruits—blackberry, plum, and cassis—intertwine with sweet spices such as clove and cinnamon. With air, the bouquet evolves to reveal savoury nuances reminiscent of cured meat and umami.
• Palate: Full-bodied and structured, showcasing dark berry compote and savoury biltong flavours. The tannins are fine-grained yet assertive, leading to a persistent, spicy finish.

Did you know?

Hartenberg is one of South Africa’s oldest family-owned producers of Shiraz, with a legacy spanning over five decades. The estate was also one of the first to bottle a single-vineyard Shiraz under its celebrated Gravel Hill label, helping to define the country’s modern identity for this noble grape.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Karoo lamb chops: The gamey richness of lamb harmonizes beautifully with the wine’s dark fruit and savoury spice.
• Beef burger with grilled cheddar: A bold pairing where umami and fat are mirrored by the wine’s tannins and structure.
• Mushroom risotto: Earthy, creamy notes of the risotto are elevated by the Shiraz’s biltong and spice undertones.
• Braised beef short ribs: The wine’s grip and spice stand up to the dish’s richness and depth.

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.