Taste Characteristics
Light
Bold
Smooth
Tannic
Dry
Sweet
Soft
Acidic
Gentle
Fizzy

Introduction

Ahrens Family Paarl Rocks 2021 is a truly exceptional wine and the pinnacle of Ahrens Family Wines’ winemaking. It showcases the Paarl region’s exceptional potential. This wine reflects winemaker Anton Ahrens’s dream to craft a world-class Syrah. The Paarl region’s unique terroir—high elevations, granite soils, and extreme diurnal shifts—creates ideal conditions. Grapes achieve remarkable concentration and balance. The exceptional 2021 vintage provided perfect ripeness and refined tannins, which set the stage for a wine of immense power and complexity.

Character Description

The Ahrens Family Paarl Rocks 2021 enchants with an impenetrable, inky black-purple hue, showing profound concentration. The bouquet offers dense black cherry, ripe cassis, and blueberry liqueur. These intertwine with notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, cedar, and a graphite minerality. Hints of vanilla, sweet spice, and a touch of dried mint also emerge. The palate is full-bodied and majestically structured. Concentrated dark fruit and savory flavors mirror the nose. Firm, yet incredibly refined tannins provide a superb backbone. A vibrant acidity ensures freshness. The finish is exceptionally long and layered, leaving an impression of intense dark fruit, complex savory notes, and the formidable character of this iconic wine.

Perfect Pairings

This monumental Syrah is perfect for robust and luxurious dishes. Its powerful structure and rich flavors complement bold meals. It pairs beautifully with prime grilled beef (like Wagyu ribeye), braised short ribs, or venison loin. Its dark fruit and tannic profile also suits aged, pungent cheeses such as mature cheddar or a strong blue. Consider dishes with black truffles or rich reductions. This wine is for special occasions or serious collectors. Decanting for several hours is highly recommended.

About the Winery

Ahrens Family Wines stands as a beacon of excellence in the Paarl region. Anton Ahrens founded the winery on his family’s farm with a vision to produce wines of exceptional quality. He focuses on dry-farmed, high-density vineyards, and his commitment to sustainable viticulture is strong. Paarl Rocks, his flagship, represents his ultimate achievement and highlights his pursuit of perfection. Anton Ahrens delivers wines of profound character, and this Syrah embodies his dedication to crafting world-class wines from the Paarl region.

Additional information

Alcohol Content

13%

Area

Western Cape / Coastal Region

Region

Western Cape

Country

South Africa

Grape

Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, Shiraz/Syrah

Best Served With

Beef, Game (deer, venison), Lamb

Wine Color

Red

Vintage

2021

Volume

750 ml

Wine Name

Ahrens Family Paarl Rocks

Wine Style

South African Rhône Blend Red

Wine Producer

The Ahrens Family

Closure Type

Cork