2022 De Toren Private Cellar The Black Lion

the winery De Toren Private Cellar

De Toren Private Cellar was founded in the early 1990s by Emil and Sonette den Dulk. They left Johannesburg to start a new life in Stellenbosch, in the Polkadraai Hills. The estate is situated on south-facing slopes overlooking False Bay and Table Mountain. Thanks to the cool sea breeze and the altitude of approximately 170 to 200 meters, a mild growing climate is created in which red grapes ripen slowly. The soil is varied—weathered granite, sandstone, and loam—which gives the grapes depth and character.

The vineyards are divided into plots with specific soil types and microclimates. The emphasis is on quality over quantity. Thanks to hand harvesting, strict sorting, and a unique gravity-driven cellar process (using the estate's tower), minimal mechanical influence is sought. Everything comes together in wines that demonstrate both power and finesse.

region, terroir and climate of the Polka Draai Hills

The Polkadraai Hills are part of Stellenbosch – one of South Africa's top red wine regions. Their proximity to the ocean ensures cool nights, which helps preserve acidity. The slopes provide excellent drainage and restrict vine growth, resulting in smaller but concentrated grapes. The combination of sun, wind, soil, and altitude produces terroir with tension, mineral tension, and refined fruit profiles.

The 2022 Black Lion wine: composition, vinification and storage

This edition of The Black Lion is a 100% Shiraz wine—a deliberate departure from the house's classic Bordeaux blend model. The grapes were hand-harvested in the early morning and delivered chilled. Fermentation took place in the cellar, followed by maceration in open tanks to achieve maximum extraction of color, flavor, and tannin.

After fermentation, the wine matured for 18 months in 225-liter new French oak barriques, placed in a controlled maturation room at approximately 14°C and 80% humidity. Only 1,000 to 1,300 numbered bottles were produced. Each bottle is individually labeled and presented in a handmade black wooden box with an iconic key—a clear sign that this is a unique offering in the house's portfolio.

color, aroma and flavor profile of The Black Lion 2022

In the glass, the wine reveals an intense, inky-black core with purple edges. The nose opens with rich fruit notes such as blackcurrant, ripe plum, and blackberry. Spices like black pepper and anise follow, combined with dark cocoa, graphite, and smoky notes that clearly derive from the terroir and vinification.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, with firm yet refined tannins. The fruit is concentrated and incredibly expressive, without becoming overly heavy thanks to the freshness and minerality. The oak is noticeable but well-integrated, adding layers rather than dominating. The finish is long, with dark fruit notes, a hint of licorice, and earth – a wine that impresses both now and will continue to develop.

The name "The Black Lion" refers to the power, rarity, and regal aura that De Toren aims to express with this wine. According to the winery itself (source: de-toren.com), the lion is a symbol of South Africa, while "black" represents the deep, almost inky color of the Shiraz and the mystique and elegance of this unique cuvée.

The wine is considered De Toren's "black diamond"—the estate's absolute top-tier, produced in micro-production. While the name "Fusion V" refers to the five Bordeaux varieties, "The Black Lion" symbolizes a single grape (Shiraz) presented in its purest form, with the strength and pride of a lion.

Would you like to order wines from De Toren Private Cellar online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

wine and food pairings

• Beef steak with spicy jus and mashed potatoes – the full structure of the wine complements the juicy meat and the earthy notes of the jus perfectly.
• Rack of Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic – the spiciness of the dish reflects the peppery Shiraz aromas, while the fat of the lamb softens the tannins.
• Beef and Mushroom Braise – Slow-cooked meat with onion and thyme brings out the soft, smoky notes in the wine.
• Grilled eggplant with tomato and feta – a vegetarian dish where the salty cheese and roasted vegetables blend beautifully with the fruity character of the wine.
• Duck breast with balsamic vinegar and cherries – the balance between sweet and sour enhances the dark fruit notes of the Shiraz.
• Dark chocolate mousse with raspberries – the bitter cocoa and fresh berries combine with the depth of the black fruit in the wine.