The Innocent Syrah 2015

This wine represents the legendry South African vineyard trial of 1979. The Syrah grapes of Lammershock were ripe and succulent, making wines with aromas of dark chocolate, red berry fruit and hints of savoury undertones (which continue to this day). The trouble was the grapes were so desirable that sheep would regularly eat them all. A bigshot police commissioner, angered by the small amount of Syrah available, attempted to put a stop to it by finding a scape-sheep, an entirely innocent young gent named Gary. Local lawyer Al Sheepacino, took to the defence of Gary, mostly by shouting "I'm out of order? You're out of order! This whole trial is out of order!" Whether this helped or not, we don't know but the winemakers at Lammershock passed around a few bottles and everyone agreed that whole event had been totally ridiculous. Funny what people will do for a delicious bottle of Syrah.

The name Lammershoek dates back more than three centuries, linked to survival or the preservation of life in a harsh, untamed environment. Meaning “lambs’ corner”, legend has it that ewes sought shelter for their small lambs in the forest alongside the farm when they felt threatened by the black eagle which abounded in Swartland – locally known as the Lammervanger, meaning “lamb catcher” in the Afrikaans language.

In this sheltering valley of the Paardeberg Mountain in the Swartland district – a stone’s throw from Cape Town’s famous Table Mountain – Lammershoek’s farming legacy is perpetuated in the seasonal pulse of nature and its ever-renewing life. In the vibrant new vineyard shoots of spring, in green landscapes framed by rocky mountain outcrops, in new harvests and new characteristics and qualities … also in new wines, styles and wine ranges, names and labels.

Yes, Lammershoek is indeed showing new life and vibrancy – driven by new role players, new ownership, directions, creativity and broadening horizons which will leave its fresh footprint in both the South African domestic and the export markets.
The farm – in the Aprilskloof valley which is still a largely undiscovered gem of scenic beauty and individualistic wine production – was acquired in 2013 by a trio of well-known German businessmen and sporting executives. The majority investor is legendary soccer star Franz Beckenbauer, with communications specialist Andreas Abold and sport promotor Fedor Radmann.

They specifically selected this unique piece of land in a still unspoilt environment, which reflects their belief that joie de vivre and pleasure can be reconciled with personal responsibility and the nuances of nature.

A new management team was introduced at the beginning of 2015 and the green hills of Lammershoek are alive with the growth and dynamism of a new era – an era reflected in new-born wines crafted to enhance the wine-lover’s joy of life …