Spice Route Chakalaka

Spice Route is an iconic estate in the Swartland of South Africa, founded by Charles Back in the late 1990s and credited with helping elevate the region’s global reputation. The winery farms bush vines dry grown on deep, iron rich Koffieklip, Oakleaf and decomposed granite soils under warm, dry Mediterranean conditions. Vineyard practices emphasise sustainability with minimal irrigation and traditional hand work in the cellar.

The Spice Route Chakalaka is a rich, expressive red blend of six varieties including Syrah (around 22-26%), Mourvèdre (around 20-22%), Grenache (around 14-27%), Carignan (around 11-25%), Petite Sirah (around 8-16%) and Tannat (around 3-6%)in balanced proportions that reflect Swartland’s bold character. The hand harvested grapes were destemmed, lightly crushed and fermented in open concrete vats with manual punch downs before malolactic fermentation. After this the components matured in seasoned French and American oak for around 12 months and were returned to barrel after blending for further harmony. The wine offers layered aromas of blackcurrant, plum, spice and clove with integrated oak and smooth structured tannins. It pairs beautifully with slow roasted meats, barbecue, rich tomato based stews and African inspired spiced dishes that reflect the wine’s vibrant fruit and spice complexity.