Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2018

The third vintage of this stellar wine using only Swartland grapes – 80% from Porseleinberg (‘for blue-fruit freshness, concentration and structure’ says Marc Kent) and 20% from Goldmine (‘depth and richness’). Amazing concentration on nose and palate, boasting sappy and stalky vibrancy from 40% whole-bunch fermentation. Rich, full, velvety mouthfeel, with 18 months in old foudres and demi-muids giving gentle pepper and exotic spice notes. Elegant, pure and juicy, with an ethereal floral lift that carries through the long finish.

With a dark ruby core and a deep magenta rim, the nose on 2018 Syrah erupts with classic tones of black pepper, cured meat, sweet and juicy red and black fruit, dusty red cherry, black raspberry and blackberry reduction. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is delineated with bright and dusty flavors of plum reduction and blackberry jus before offering up a spicy and floral essence across the mid-palate with lifting tannins that support the frame. The wine concludes with a long, lingering and subtly spiced finish, leaving lasting tones of dusty blackberry, roasted espresso bean, baking spices and fresh cracked black pepper. Eighty percent of the Syrah grapes came from the Porseleinberg vineyard. 30,000 bottles were produced.