Importer's Corner 2022 Villiera Down to Earth Touriga Nacional Shiraz, Stellenbosch, South Africa

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Villiera is a 4 generations run family owned vineyard estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

A vibrant, modern red blend from Stellenbosch that balances bold character with high drinkability. This vegan-friendly wine pours a deep, rich purple-red color in the glass. The aromatic profile delivers a captivating nose of dark berries, plum, and cassis, layered with hints of white pepper and sweet chocolate. On the palate, expect an explosion of juicy dark fruit and gentle spice, showing excellent fruit purity and an approachable structure. This medium-to-full-bodied blend benefits from brief French oak maturation, which rounds out the profile with silky, soft tannins and hints of vanilla and cocoa on a long, smooth finish. Built for immediate enjoyment but capable of cellaring until 2030, this wine is best served slightly cool at 16–18°C (60–64°F)  The Down to Earth concept is to create a wine that can be enjoyed by all. The name implies that it has to be consistent, reliable and affordable.

65% Touriga Nacional and 35% Shiraz

The grapes are lightly crushed and destalked but handled carefully to limit tannins and ensure softness. When the winemakers made the original blend they began with Shiraz, but Jeff was looking for something with more fruit so Touriga Nacional was added for color, depth and fruit. Perfect! 

Villiera Wines is rooted in a fascinating agricultural evolution, having transitioned from a family-run poultry business into a premier 400-hectare Cape Winelands destination. Originally acquired in 1983 by cousins Jeff and Simon Grier, the property underwent a massive transformation that saw the replanting of old vineyards and the implementation of advanced cellar infrastructure. The estate is highly distinct for dedicating over half of its land to the Villiera Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected conservation area where visitors can take guided game drives to view native species like giraffes, zebras, and kudu roaming right next to the vineyard blocks. Deeply committed to the local community, the estate permanently hosts the Pebbles Project, an on-site NGO and educational facility providing essential support, healthcare, and schooling for the children of regional farm workers.