Get to know: Kloovenburg The Village Red 2024
A characterful yet approachable South African red wine from the heart of the Swartland.
Tasting Note
Kloovenburg The Village Red 2024 is a vibrant, easy-going blend that balances bright fruit with a subtle savoury edge. Deep ruby in colour with inviting aromas of red berries, cracked black pepper, gentle spice and a hint of wild herbs. On the palate, Grenache-led juiciness shines through with flavours of ripe raspberry, cherry and plum, complemented by Shiraz spice and a soft, creamy touch of chocolate from time in barrel. It finishes smooth and rounded with fresh acidity keeping everything nicely in check. This is a modern Swartland red wine that’s uncomplicated but far from boring.
Top food pairings:
- Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic
- Braised duck breast or venison sausages
- Savoury vegetarian dishes such as lentil bake or mushroom risotto
Kate Says
"This is a great ‘midweek but make it interesting’ red. It’s got enough spice and texture to keep you engaged, but it’s still really drinkable – the kind of bottle that quietly disappears with dinner."
Producer Info
Kloovenburg is a historic, family-run estate in the Swartland with roots stretching back to the early 1700s. Now under the stewardship of the Du Toit family, the winery blends deep respect for tradition with a hands-on, low-intervention approach. Dry-farmed bush vines, schist soils and natural fermentations help create expressive wines that reflect the rugged Swartland landscape and its warm, Mediterranean climate.
How it’s made:
- Varieties: Grenache, Shiraz, Garnacha Peluda, Mourvèdre
- Hand-harvested in the early morning to retain freshness
- Natural fermentation in open fermenters with gentle pump-overs
- Extended skin contact before pressing to neutral barrels
- 10 months maturation in barrel before bottling
Good to know:
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Region: Swartland, South Africa
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Style: Red, dry, medium-bodied
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Closure: Natural cork
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Vegan: Not specified
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ABV: 14.1%
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Vintage: 2024
Why we love it:
This South African red wine is all about balance – juicy fruit, gentle spice and a smooth, food-friendly finish. A brilliant introduction to Swartland reds and a versatile bottle that works just as well with Sunday lunch as it does on a relaxed evening in.