The Producer
Groenland is a fourth-generation family wine estate nestled in the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch, one of the Cape’s most prized wine districts. The Steenkamp family has been crafting wines here for over 90 years, with Piet Steenkamp now at the helm as winemaker and farmer. The estate comprises 188 hectares, with 152 hectares under vine — including 37 hectares of Shiraz, one of their strongest varietals.
Groenland’s wines have won numerous accolades at the Veritas, Michelangelo and Gourmet Festival awards. With elevated south-west facing slopes overlooking Table Bay and well-drained gravel soils, the Bottelary terroir is ideally suited to producing wines of depth, spice and complexity — particularly Shiraz.
Vintage & Terroir
The 2020 vintage in Stellenbosch was characterised by a dry growing season that concentrated flavours beautifully in the Shiraz grapes. Groenland’s 37 hectares of Shiraz vineyards are planted on elevated slopes in the Bottelary Hills on well-drained gravel soils, benefiting from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The south-west facing aspect captures cooling breezes from Table Bay, ensuring slow ripening that preserves aromatic complexity and natural acidity.
In the Cellar
The grapes were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and gently destemmed before fermentation. Temperature-controlled fermentation preserved the varietal’s characteristic spice and dark fruit aromatics, while extended maceration on the skins extracted deep colour and velvety tannins. The wine was matured in a combination of French and American oak barrels, adding smoky, vanilla and spicy layers that complement the concentrated fruit core beautifully.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep ruby-purple with violet reflections.
Nose: Rich and inviting, with aromas of ripe blackberry, dark plum and cracked black pepper, layered with hints of smoked meat, dried herbs and subtle vanilla oak.
Palate: Full-bodied and generously flavoured, with concentrated dark berry fruit, black pepper spice and savoury undertones. The tannins are soft and well-integrated, giving the wine a smooth, approachable character.
Finish: Long and warming, with lingering notes of spice, dark chocolate and a touch of smokiness.
Food Pairing
This Shiraz is a natural partner for slow-braised lamb shanks, peppered venison or a hearty waterblommetjie bredie. It pairs beautifully with chargrilled boerewors, smoked brisket or a rich beef potjie. For cheese lovers, try it alongside aged Gruyère or blue cheese. Serve at 16–18°C.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Region | Bottelary, Stellenbosch |
| Grape(s) | Shiraz |
| Alcohol | 14.5% |
| Oak | French and American oak barrels |
| Closure | Cork |
| Cellaring | Drink now or cellar for 5–8 years |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Groenland Shiraz 2020 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.
