2015 Mullineux Syrah Swartland Mullineux Wines

The 2015 Syrah includes two additional vineyards on granite soils after the 2015, whilst the whole bunch component is back up to 60%. It has a clean and precise bouquet with floral-tinged red berry fruit (red cherry and wild strawberry), nicely focused and developing more intensity with aeration. The palate is very well balanced with crisp acidity, fine structure, much more detail than the 2014 andI think that is down to the higher whole bunch proportion, the sense of energy flowing through on the long finish. Compared to the 2014 Syrah, I much prefer this: more freshness and complexity.

Seven different vineyards on a combination of granite, schist and iron soils make up the blend of this brilliant, textbook Syrah. Running to 35,000 bottles, it has a touch of new oak, wonderful fragrance and perfume, some whole bunch grip and a smoky, brambly mid palate. 2017-23.

Matured for 11 months in 10% new oak, the 2015 Syrah has a perfumed, slightly menthol bouquet that is nicely defined and offers ample red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin and plenty of cranberry and pomegranate notes laced with white pepper and a touch of undergrowth, although I feel that the 2016 has a little more precision on the finish. 2019 - 2027.