The Producer
Survivor is a wine brand born from one of the most unlikely stories in the Cape Winelands. It all began when a Nguni cow leapt from a livestock truck and landed in the vineyards of DB Rust in Swartland. Rather than meet her intended fate, the cow survived — and thrived among the vines, becoming a local legend and the inspiration behind this bold wine range.
Behind the wines stands Pierre Wahl, a member of the prestigious Cape Winemakers Guild and the 2016 Diners Club Winemaker of the Year. Known as the “Pope of Pinotage,” Pierre’s winemaking philosophy embraces terroir-driven expression with minimal intervention. His Survivor Reserve Pinotage 2020 earned a coveted Platter’s 5-star rating, while multiple wines in the range have achieved SAWi Platinum recognition.
Vintage & Terroir
The 2022 vintage in Swartland benefited from a well-balanced growing season, producing grapes with excellent concentration and aromatic complexity. The Syrah grapes are sourced from carefully selected low-yielding vineyards on deep red Hutton and Oakleaf soils, as well as bush vine parcels planted on decomposed granite. The trellised vines bring youthful vigour while the older bush vines, aged around 15 years, contribute depth and character. Swartland’s Mediterranean climate with warm dry summers and cooling Atlantic breezes creates the perfect conditions for expressive, terroir-driven Syrah.
In the Cellar
Pierre Wahl’s approach to Syrah is one of restraint and respect for the fruit. The grapes were destemmed and cold-soaked before fermentation to maximise colour extraction and aromatic intensity. Fermentation proceeded at carefully controlled temperatures, followed by extended maceration on the skins to build a refined, silky tannin structure. The wine was then matured in a combination of French oak barrels, adding layers of spice and complexity while preserving the vibrant fruit character that defines Swartland Syrah.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep, intense ruby-purple with violet highlights.
Nose: Rich and pungent, brimming with aromas of liquorice, ripe black fruits and dark plum, layered with nuances of cloves, thyme and white pepper.
Palate: Full-bodied and well-structured, with a refined, layered palate of dark berry compote, black olive and savoury spice. Despite the expressive nose, the palate surprises with its restraint, revealing more complexity with each sip.
Finish: Long and lingering, with warming notes of cracked pepper and subtle smoky oak.
Food Pairing
This Syrah is a natural match for slow-braised lamb shanks, peppered beef fillet or a hearty Swartland potjie. It pairs beautifully with chargrilled boerewors, smoked brisket or a rich oxtail stew. For cheese lovers, try it alongside aged Gouda or Gorgonzola. Serve at 16–18°C to enjoy the full aromatic expression.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Region | Swartland, Coastal Region |
| Grape(s) | Syrah (Shiraz) |
| Alcohol | 14.50% |
| Closure | Cork |
| Cellaring | Drink now or cellar for 3–5 years |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Survivor Terroir Syrah 2022 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.
