Beau Constantia, Stella 2022

Description

A blend of 98 Syrah & 2% Viognier

2022 HARVEST – by Winemaker Megan van der Merwe
2022 was marked by contrasts and extremes—a vintage that kept us on our toes from budbreak to bottling. A late start in spring due to unusually cold, wet soils gave way to vigorous growth in October, followed by intense rains, hailstorms, and wind that tested both vines and viticultural strategy. As summer arrived, we faced alternating heatwaves and unseasonal cold snaps, with erratic conditions persisting through veraison. These dynamic elements required vigilance and adaptability in the vineyard, from canopy management to weed control. 2022 was challenging, but challenges are what make a vintage unique and overcoming them is what makes a vintage meaningful.

VINIFICATION
The 2022 STELLA was crafted with unwavering intent: to honour and preserve the identity of the site that bore its fruit. Nestled on the lower lying slopes, a small parcel where Syrah and Viognier grow intertwined provided the source. Bunches were hand-picked with precision—Viognier golden and slightly raisined from extended hang-time, exuding a honeyed richness, and Syrah showing its signature spice. Carefully bunch-sorted in the vineyard and again in the cellar, the fruit made its way into two
small cuves for co-fermentation. 37% of the mix comprised whole clusters, selected from a particularly stressed parcel of vines bearing perfectly lignified stems, while the remaining 63% was whole berry— about 15% still a vibrant, youthful red; the rest, a deep, classic Syrah blue. Following a 7-day cold soak, fermentation began naturally. The
grapes remained in contact with their skins and stems for a total of 21 days, nurtured gently through the process. As the cap began to fall and daily punchdowns became unnecessary, the wine was pressed and transferred to 225L French oak barriques—54% of them new, the rest between five and six years old. STELLA was left undisturbed—never racked—and matured gracefully on its lees for 18 months.

TASTING NOTE
STELLA 2022 opens with a sense of restraint—nostalgic notes of raspberry jelly being stirred in a warm kitchen. But soon, it evolves into a boldly expressive Syrah, redolent of smoked meat, sun-dried herbs, and wild fynbos. The palate reveals layers of mulberry compote, black fig, and ripe blackberry, threaded with cracked black pepper, cinnamon bark, and a hint of citrus rind. Tannins are fine and rooibos-like—structured, velvety, and clearing. The finish? Bright, concentrated, and long—a burst of dark fruit, citrus oil, and electric acidity that leaves you craving another sip.

TECHNICAL ANALYSIS
W.O. Constantia
ALC 14.11%
TA 5.11 g/l
VA 0.68 g/l
RS 1.4 g/l
PH 3,48

Derived directly from Latin, the word “stella” meaning star, this wine is a fitting tribute to our deceased mother who will remain a guide and shining light in the Du Preez family as we try to emulate her joie de vivre.

Additional information

• Meat & Game: Grilled or roasted venison, beef short rib, and ostrich carpaccio.
• Savory & Umami Flavors: Dishes with truffle, parmesan, or creamy sauces.
• Charcuterie & Cheese: A charcuterie board with cured meats and firm cheeses like matured pecorino or parmesan.
• Vegetarian: Hearty mushroom-based dishes, such as a rich mushroom risotto, or roasted root vegetables.