Craven Syrah 'The Firs'

The Firs is Craven's single-vineyard Syrah from Stellenbosch, South Africa, showing what this noble variety can do when it's grown in the right place and handled with care. This is Syrah with structure, depth, and real character – a serious wine that rewards attention.

Craven Wines was founded in 2014 by Mick and Janine. Originally from Australia, Mick met Jeanine whilst working in Sonoma, California, before both moving to South Africa in 2011. They source fruit from single vineyard sites in and around Stellenbosch, working only with farmers who are dedicated to working their land organically.

The Firs vineyard expresses the diversity of Stellenbosch terroir – when farming well, there is a lot of site expression in the grapes and final wine. They work with farmers who understand the importance of cover crops and removing chemical treatments. The winemaking approach keeps things relatively simple – no cultured yeasts, enzymes or fining agents are added, and bottling is with minimal sulphur additions.

What you get is pure Syrah – dark fruit, black pepper, herbs, a touch of smoke, and that characteristic grip and structure that makes it so food-friendly. There's depth and complexity here, with layers that unfold as the wine opens up. The wine has enough structure to age gracefully but is also approachable now.

Serve it at room temperature with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, stews, game, or aged cheeses. Give it some air if you have time – it rewards patience. This is honest, energetic South African Syrah from one of the country's most exciting producers.