Saxenburg The Drunken Fowl Shiraz 2013

Wine of Origin:  Stellenbosch

Winery Location:  Stellenbosch

Winemaker: Nico van der Merwe

Background: Since 1989, Saxenburg’s Buhrer family have been producing top-end wines and always with an innovative skill. This week saw the launch of another innovative wine from them called The Drunken Fowl which is a 2013 Shiraz. Made from grapes grown on the farm where the soils have proved to be relatively poor which results in a low yield, yet the wines produced end up with high flavour concentration and body. And why the Drunken Fowl.

This poem on the back label explains all:

“Bertie as you all should know is Saxenburgs resident beau

Better known as the drunken fowl he surfaces quietly, like a night owl

And when no one is there for the securing,

He consumes the wine that in the barrels is maturing.

Shiraz is his favourite one, and brings a wiggle to his wee bum.

With his rich spicy and plummy flavour.

He shouldn’t be the only one to savour!”

Result: Handsome ruby velvet colour which draws you to its aromas of fresh dark fruits with subtle peppery spice. The palate is medium to full-bodied with lively plum flavour and a smooth soft texture on the finish.

When to drink: now until 2017

Drink with what: Pepper-crusted Ostrich Fillet

Expect to pay: R70.00