Alvi's Drift '221' Special Cuvee, Western Cape, South Africa

Rich in character and deeply rooted in heritage, the 2020 Alvi’s Drift ‘221’ Special Cuvée blends estate-grown varietals from the Breede River Valley into a wine that celebrates both South African terroir and family legacy. Its vibrant ruby-red hue and perfumed aromatics capture attention immediately, while layers of spice and fruit unfold on the palate with poise and intensity.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: Alvi van der Merwe
• Blend: Shiraz 41%, Cabernet Sauvignon 28%, Pinotage 13%, Petit Verdot 5%, Grenache 5%, Durif 4%, Viognier 4%
• Vintage: 2020
• ABV: 13.7%
• Residual Sugar: 5.5 g/L
• Acidity: 6.1 g/L
• pH: 3.4
• Farming / Style: Estate-grown, sustainably farmed, hand-harvested, native yeast fermentations, selective barrel aging

Sensory Description:

Perfumed aromas of white pepper, mulberry, prunes, and liquorice lead the bouquet, layered with warming hints of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The palate follows with lush, concentrated fruit framed by silky tannins, culminating in an intriguing blackberry finish dusted with pepper spice. Balanced yet powerful, it offers both immediate appeal and the promise of graceful maturation over the next three to five years.

Awards & Accolades:

• Gold Medal – 2022 International Wine & Spirits Awards
• Gold Medal – 2022 Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition
• Silver Medal – 2022 Veritas Awards 

Winemaker's Background:

Founded on the fertile banks of the Breede River, Alvi’s Drift Winery is a multi-generational family estate whose roots stretch back to 1928. The name honors Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe, “Oupa Alvi”, who famously became the 221st Springbok rugby player after scoring a historic try against the All Blacks. Today, his grandson, Dr. Alvi van der Merwe, and his wife, Cape Wine Master Junel, lead the estate, uniting medical precision and wine expertise in a formidable partnership. Their philosophy combines meticulous vineyard stewardship, sustainable practices, and a pursuit of excellence that has made Alvi’s Drift a name synonymous with quality South African wines.

Serving Suggestions:

Best enjoyed at 16–18 °C, this red pairs beautifully with porcini mushroom and truffle risotto, grilled steak with creamy pepper sauce, or hearty stews. Its spice-driven finish also complements robust cheeses and charcuterie.

The 2020 Alvi’s Drift ‘221’ Special Cuvée is a bold yet elegant blend that reflects the family’s history, terroir, and winemaking passion. Complex, polished, and award-winning, it honors the winery’s heritage while delivering a wine of true South African distinction.