Description
What kind of wine it is
The Bernard Series Basket Press Syrah by Bellingham is a still red wine that precisely interprets the identity of the Syrah grape variety. On the nose, the bouquet reveals a deep interweaving of wild red berries, enhanced by spicy notes of white and black pepper and hints of dark chocolate, completed by a delicate floral touch of violet. On the palate, it expresses a powerful and generous structure, supported by ripe tannins that provide remarkable depth. The balance between the richness of the fruit and the spicy texture offers a complex and well-defined tasting experience, destined to evolve elegantly over time.
Where it comes from
This wine originates from South Africa's Coastal Region, a territory that imparts great intensity and aromatic concentration to the grape variety. Produced by the historic Bellingham winery, this red is part of a range dedicated to Bernard Podlashuk, pioneer and co-founder of the estate. The production approach follows a strict artisan vocation, with meticulous management of the vineyard and cellar to enhance the unique characteristics of the area. The result is a glass with a bold and recognisable character, capable of telling the story of its origin through elegant toasted nuances and a pronounced aromatic imprint.
How it is produced
Production begins with a manual harvest, followed by a rigorous selection of the bunches. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in open French oak vats, followed by gentle pressing using a basket press. After completing malolactic fermentation, the wine matures for twelve months in fine wood. This process gives the wine body and breadth, making it the ideal companion for red meats, game or mature cheeses, preferably after decanting for about an hour to allow the aromatic profile to fully express itself.
History and Curiosities
Founded in 1693 in South Africa, the Bellingham winery celebrates its tradition with a limited edition Syrah dedicated to pioneer Bernard Podlashuk. The label embodies a true artisanal vocation, combining careful hand harvesting with the natural action of indigenous yeasts. After a gentle extraction using the traditional basket press, the wine matures for twelve months in fine French oak barriques. This meticulous care ensures a powerful structure, capable of showcasing three centuries of winemaking expertise in the glass.
Tasting notes
Perfume
Color
Taste
Serve at:
16 - 18 °C
Longevity:
10 - 15 years
Decanting time:
1 hour
- Start up year: 1693
The Podlashuks replanted the farm to vineyards and travelled to France and Germany to do extensive wine research. Upon return, they buckled down and released the Cape’s first rosé in 1949, followed in quick succession by the Premier Grand Cru in 1951 and the first single varietal Shiraz in 1956.
The 80s and 90s saw vineyard developments, cellar extensions and the beginning of Bellingham’s classic New World winemaking philosophy. Today, while still inspired by its history of innovation, ingenuity and foresight, the brand is firmly set in the 21st century, producing contemporary, structured wines with an unmistakable sense of place and style. Read more
| Name | Bellingham The Bernard Series Basket Press Limited Release Syrah 2020 |
|---|---|
| Type | Red still |
| Denomination | N/A |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Size | 0,75 l |
| Alcohol content | 14.0% by volume |
| Grape varieties | 100% Syrah |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | South Africa |
| Vendor | Bellingham |
| Story | History and Curiosities Founded in 1693 in South Africa, the Bellingham winery celebrates its tradition with a limited edition Syrah dedicated to pioneer Bernard Podlashuk. The label embodies a true artisanal vocation, combining careful hand harvesting with the natural action of indigenous yeasts. After a gentle extraction using the traditional basket press, the wine matures for twelve months in fine French oak barriques. This meticulous care ensures a powerful structure, capable of showcasing three centuries of winemaking expertise in the glass. |
| Origin | Coastal Region, South Africa |
| Production technique | Natural fermentation in open 500-litre French oak barrels and gentle pressing in a basket press |
| Wine making | The selection of bunches and berries took place upon arrival at the winery before crushing and fermentation. Natural fermentation in open 500-litre French oak vats, followed by gentle pressing in a basket press; malolactic fermentation in French oak barriques and ageing for 12 months before bottling. |
| Aging | The young wine was reintroduced into French oak barriques where malolactic fermentation was completed, followed by a further 12 months of maturation before bottling. |
| Allergens | Contains sulphites |

