STRANDVELD
THE NAVIGATOR 2022

Produced from 17-year-old vines grown at Africa’s southernmost vineyards, The Navigator 2022 reflects both the pioneering spirit of exploration and the untamed beauty of the Cape Agulhas terroir. The vintage began with an unusually long winter stretching into November 2021, resulting in a small yet healthy crop. Cool, dry conditions through January and February delayed harvest by two weeks, with Grenache, Shiraz, and Viognier picked on 11 March, followed by Mourvèdre ten days later.

The grapes were harvested over a 10-day period, beginning with a small batch of Shiraz, Grenache, and Viognier co-fermented in open-top fermenters with daily punch-downs. Mourvèdre and additional Shiraz were fermented separately in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs. After 21 days of skin contact, the wine was pressed and matured for 20 months in 300L French oak barrels — 30% new, the remainder 2nd and 3rd fill. Only 10,600 bottles were produced.

A beautifully composed Rhône-style blend (73% Shiraz, 15% Grenache, 6% Mourvèdre, and 6% Viognier), this wine reveals a deep garnet hue with layers of coriander, black pepper, tobacco leaf, and cherry. The palate unfolds with notes of dark chocolate, plum, and fine tannins, finishing with a savoury, salty minerality — the signature of Elim’s windswept coast.

The Navigator represents Strandveld’s journey of discovery — navigating new lands, weather, and terroir to craft wines of authenticity and depth.

Food pairing: Perfect with grilled lamb, venison, game birds, or slow-braised beef.
Serving: Best at ±16–18°C.
Cellaring: Enjoy now or cellar until 2035.
Production: 10,600 bottles only.

Reviews:

93 Points: Tim Atkin SA Special Report 2025

Tim Atkin: ”The Navigator is an intriguing red blend of mostly Syrah, 15% Grenache and 6 % each of Mourvèdre and Viognier. Reflecting its cool climate  origin in Elim, its a bright, tangy acid-driven style with aromas of seaweed and white pepper, racy redcurrant, thyme and wild strawberry flavours and sinewy tannins. 2026-30″

Gold Medal: Michelangelo Awards 2024

91 Points: James Suckling Review 2024