As National Shiraz Day approaches on 21 August, there's more than one way to appreciate South Africa's favourite bold red. While a beautifully poured glass of Syrah is always a classic choice, Groot Phesantekraal is one of many who are encouraging wine lovers to experience the variety from an entirely new perspective – with a sophisticated cocktail that places the estate's award-winning wine centre stage.
Created by renowned mixologist Julian Short, better known as The Flavourist, the Syrah Sour is the latest instalment in Groot Phesantekraal's wine cocktail series. Instead of masking the wine's character, the recipe enhances it, allowing the Syrah's fruit, spice, and structure to evolve with every sip.
The timing couldn't be more fitting. Groot Phesantekraal's 2023 Syrah recently earned national recognition after being named a joint trophy winner at the 2025 Investec Trophy Wine Show, receiving an impressive 97 points. The accolade further cements the Durbanville estate's reputation for producing one of South Africa's finest expressions of the varietal.
A cocktail that celebrates craftsmanship
The Syrah Sour is intentionally layered. Early sips highlight vibrant citrus and subtle sweetness, while the wine gradually integrates into the cocktail, revealing richer notes of dark berries, gentle spice, and elegant tannins.
For Short, the cocktail is about much more than creating an eye-catching serve.
"The idea was never simply to create another cocktail. We wanted to celebrate the journey behind the wine itself – the people, the process and the passion that takes it from vineyard to glass. The Syrah Sour allows guests to experience the wine in an entirely different way while still respecting everything that makes it special."
What makes the Syrah float so special?
The cocktail's defining feature is its signature Syrah float. Beyond its dramatic ruby-red appearance, the technique allows the wine's aromas and flavour profile to remain distinct before gradually marrying with the whisky, honey, and citrus beneath.
As the layers slowly combine, the drink evolves in complexity, demonstrating the remarkable versatility of Syrah in both classic wine service and contemporary mixology.
It's an elegant reminder that great wine doesn't always have to be enjoyed in traditional ways.
What to serve with a Syrah Sour
Thanks to its balance of richness, acidity and gentle sweetness, the Syrah Sour pairs beautifully with comforting winter dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
- Pap and wors
- Creamy peri-peri chicken livers on toast
- Free-range grilled beef
- A generous cheese and charcuterie board
Syrah Sour Recipe
Flavour profile: Wood • Fruit • Dry • Fresh
Ingredients
- 50 ml Irish whisky
- 25 ml honey water (3:1)
- 25 ml fresh lemon juice
- 25 ml Groot Phesantekraal Syrah
- Candied ginger or candied watermelon, to garnish
Method
Shake the Irish whisky, honey water and fresh lemon juice with ice until well chilled. Strain over fresh cubed ice into a flat tumbler. Slowly and carefully float the Groot Phesantekraal Syrah over the top to create a layered finish. Garnish with a skewer of candied ginger or candied watermelon.
Honey Water (3:1)
Ingredients
- 750 g honey
- 250 g hot water
- 5 g fine salt
Method
Combine the honey, hot water and salt, stirring until completely dissolved.
Allow the mixture to cool before bottling. Store refrigerated until ready to use.
