The Producer
Alvi’s Drift is a family-owned estate in the Scherpenheuwel ward of Worcester, nestled in the Breede River Valley. Founded in 1928 by patriarch Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe, the estate is now run by his grandson Alvi — a medical doctor who returned from abroad to follow his passion. With winemakers Henk Swart and Linley Schultz, and Cape Wine Master Junel van der Merwe, this is one of the most decorated teams in South African wine. Alvi’s Drift holds the NWC Vineyard Consistency Award — ranked South Africa’s number one estate with 62 winning wines over 15 years.
Vintage & Terroir
The Drift Fusion is a true Cape Blend — led by Pinotage and backed by Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Durif, Petit Verdot, and Grenache. The diverse terroir of the Breede River Valley — decomposed granite, red Karoo soil, limestone, and black slate — contributes to the complexity of each component variety. The 2020 vintage delivered concentrated, ripe fruit with excellent structure, producing a Fusion of real depth and ageing potential.
In the Cellar
Each variety is vinified separately to maximise its individual character before being blended. The wine is matured in a combination of French oak barrels to add layers of spice, cedar, and structure. This is literally a fusion of old and new — not only of grapes and styles, but also of winemaking techniques. The result is a complex, multi-layered Cape Blend that showcases the best of South African red winemaking.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Intense black-cherry with a youthful ruby rim.
Nose: Complex aromas of ripe black fruit — prune, black cherry, and blackcurrant — layered with spice and hints of cedarwood.
Palate: Full-bodied and richly textured, with dark fruit, mocha, and spice flavours. Silky-yet-firm tannins and well-balanced acidity produce a well-rounded, structured wine with real depth. The Pinotage backbone shines through with its characteristic earthy, smoky undertone.
Finish: Long and persistent, with dark fruit, cedar, and a savoury, spicy close.
Food Pairing
A wine built for the braai — magnificent alongside a thick-cut ribeye, slow-smoked brisket, or a rich lamb shank potjie. It also pairs beautifully with venison pie, aged Cheddar, or a hearty beef and mushroom stew. Serve at 16–18°C.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Region | Breede River Valley, Western Cape |
| Grape(s) | Pinotage (36.5%), Cabernet Sauvignon (33%), Shiraz (15%), Durif (7%), Petit Verdot (5%), Grenache (3.5%) |
| Oak | French oak barrels |
| Accolades | Tim Atkin 92pts; Double Gold NWC; Grand Cru National Champion; Gold IWSC; Gold Catavinum |
| Closure | Cork |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Alvi’s Drift Fusion Red Blend is backed by our 100% Happiness Assured! Guarantee. If you’re not completely delighted, get in touch and we’ll make it right — no fuss, no fine print, just great wine and happy customers.
