The Producer
Stettyn Family Vineyards is one of South Africa’s most storied wine estates, with roots stretching back to 1714 when Jan Cloete and Jan Jurgen Radyn received their original land grant from the Governor of the Cape Colony. Named after Radyn’s hometown of Stettin (now Szczecin) in north-western Poland, the estate’s griffin emblem pays tribute to that city’s coat of arms. Since 1818, the Botha family has farmed this remarkable 438-hectare property, now in its eighth generation of winemaking. Nestled between Worcester and Villiersdorp in the breathtaking Breede River Valley, the estate’s 1777 homestead is a declared National Monument. Under winemaker JM Crafford and CEO Sarel Meyer, Stettyn continues to collect accolades — including a Platter’s 2026 Hidden Gem, an SA Terroir Award, Michelangelo Gold medals, and recognition from Gilbert & Gaillard and Veritas.
Vintage & Terroir
The Guardian draws its fruit from Stettyn’s prime vineyards on the lower slopes of the Klein Drakenstein Mountains in the Breede River Valley. The 2024 vintage delivered warm, sun-drenched days tempered by cool mountain breezes — ideal conditions for the slow, even ripening that red varietals demand. Shiraz thrives in the warmer pockets, developing deep colour and spice, while the Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards on slightly cooler, elevated sites contribute structure and cassis intensity. The Durif (Petite Sirah) — a rare variety in South Africa — adds extraordinary depth and inky colour from thick-skinned berries. Well-drained soils naturally restrict yields, concentrating flavour in every bunch.
In the Cellar
Each variety in The Guardian blend is vinified separately to allow JM Crafford and the cellar team maximum control over the final assemblage. The grapes were destemmed and cold-soaked to extract colour and flavour before fermentation at controlled temperatures. Regular pump-overs during fermentation ensured optimal tannin extraction without harshness. After pressing, each component matured in a combination of French and American oak barrels, adding layers of spice, vanilla and toast. The final blend was carefully assembled to achieve The Guardian’s hallmark balance of power, elegance and drinkability.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Intense, deep garnet with a vibrant ruby rim.
Nose: Rich, spice-laden aromas of dark berries, plum and blackcurrant, layered with hints of black pepper, clove and subtle oak-driven vanilla.
Palate: Full-bodied and generous, with concentrated dark fruit flavours supported by well-integrated tannins and a savoury, spicy mid-palate. The Durif adds remarkable depth and intensity, while the Cabernet Sauvignon provides backbone and structure.
Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering dark fruit, spice and a touch of toasty oak.
Food Pairing
The Guardian is built for hearty South African fare — think slow-roast leg of lamb with cinnamon, fennel and citrus, a perfectly grilled ribeye steak, or beef fillet with beetroot and horseradish. It also pairs beautifully with mushroom puff tartlets, mature cheddar, or a rich oxtail potjie on a winter evening. Serve at 16–18°C and decant for 30 minutes to let this blend open up fully.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2024 |
| Region | Worcester, Breede River Valley |
| Grape(s) | Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Durif |
| Alcohol | 14.5% |
| Closure | Cork |
| Cellaring | Drink now or cellar for 5–8 years |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Stettyn Guardian Red Blend 2024 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.
