The limited production Pierneef Collection consists of a varietal wine and an innovative blend for which grapes are obtained from site-specific vineyards grown predominantly in the cooler South Coast region.Following on the exceptional performance of prior vintages, the current 2013 Pierneef Syrah Viognier has not only been listed as one of the Top 100 Wines in South Africa, but has received coveted gold medals in both the Concours International de Lyon competition as well as the Old Mutual Trophy Wine show. (For the complete awards list, please visit: http://www.la-motte.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/6143-La-Motte-Award-Lists-2015-SHV.pdf) A blend of 90% Shiraz from the Walker Bay (65%) and Elim (35%) areas as well as 10% Viognier from Franschhoek, the 2013 vintage of this Rhône-style red blend offers good colour, tight, concentrated tannins and a distinct spiciness. The result is a wine full of flavour and complexity but with a certain elegance and finesse typical of a cool climate South African Syrah.Shiraz grapes from the various vineyards were harvested at different times, but always with some Viognier. Grapes were hand-sorted and fermented without stems. Wine was matured in 300-litre French oak barrels (70% new) for 14 months before blending and went back into the barrels for another 4 months thereafter. 12 000 x 6 were bottled.Its companion, the 2014 Pierneef Sauvignon Blanc has also confirmed its international standing with a gold medal at the 2015 Mundus Vini competition recognising the wine’s exceptional structure and maturation potential. (For a complete list of awards, please visit: http://www.la-motte.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/6143-La-Motte-Award-Lists-2015-PSBL.pdf) A true reflection of its cool climate terroir, the grapes for this wine originate from South Africa’s most southerly vineyards in the Elgin, Bot River, Elim and Napier areas – with the recent classification, Origin Cape South Coast. Upfront citrus and granadilla flavours are balanced with hints of green pepper. Complex and elegant with a mineral finish, the 2014 Pierneef Sauvignon Blanc is not only a refreshing aperitif, but also an exceptional partner to seafood and those often difficult pairings of Chinese and Thai food.Grapes were harvested between 20 and 22 degrees Balling with fermentation at approximately 14 degrees Celsius. After being removed from the heavier lees, the wine spent five months on the fine lees before being blended. The blend consists of 90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Semillon. 10 000 x 6 were bottled.