Named Vinous #2 Wine in the World In its Top 100 wines 2025 list, Vinous named Lukas van Loggerenberg’s Sryrah 2024 (98 points) the number 2 wine in the world. This top 100 list was whittled down from more than 35,000 reviews, which makes Lukas’ standing an even more impressive triumph. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: South Africa is making many of the best wines on the planet today. In the words of wine critic Neal Martin, “Try it now before the rest of the world catches on.”
A stunning example of a world-class Syrah, a true testament to the exceptional terroir of the Polkadraai Hills and the masterful touch of winemaker Lukas van Loggerenberg. To begin with, the name ‘Graft’ is a heartfelt tribute to Lukas’s grandfather, representing the hard work required to succeed. Moreover, it speaks to the viticultural practice of grafting two parts together to create a stronger, more meaningful whole.
This vintage is sourced from the fabled Karibib vineyard, which is often regarded as one of the Cape’s unofficial Grand Crus. In fact, the 2024 vintage showcases the incredible depth and concentration that results from a fast and intense growing season. Ultimately, it’s a wine that seamlessly balances elegance and power, with a distinctly old-world feel that has consequently garnered significant critical acclaim.
100% whole-bunch fermented with indigenous yeasts in open-top fermenters with one daily punch-down. Aged for 11 months in a combination of concrete tanks (85%) and older 500L French oak barrels (15%).
Tasting Notes: The wine reveals an exquisitely complex and perfumed nose, unfolding layers of red and black berries, crushed violets, wild fynbos, and a subtle whisper of white pepper. The palate is pure and energetic, driven by a vibrant core of fruit, lifted by vivid acidity, and framed by fine, powdery tannins. The result is a poised and elegant expression, marked by remarkable clarity and a long, savoury, persistent finish that speaks to its impressive aging potential. This Syrah carries a luxurious dimension yet retains a wild, untamed edge, making it both captivating and unforgettable.
Grapes from Polkadraai Hills. 100% whole-bunch fermented. Gorgeous aromatics of red and black berries orange, rose, fynbos and white pepper. The palate is pure and energetic with powdery tannins – this vintage has weight which Polkadraai can sometimes lack a little bit. The wine nevertheless is elegant and poised with a long, insistent finish – very nicely judged. Alc: 13.8%. CE’s rating: 97/100.
ANALYSIS: ALC 13.8% | TA 5.1g/L | pH 3.7 | RS 1.9g/L
