2016 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Swaartland

The 2016 Swartland Syrah is unmistakable with a dark purple core and black pepper on the nose with mineral- driven, black-fruited concentration and a soft, smoky presence. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and purely Syrah with some oak influences and soft minerality on the back end, followed by a clean, precise and long finish. Produced with natural, spontaneous fermentation, with 30% whole clusters added. 29,800 bottles were made. 2019-2032.

The 2016 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah comes 80% from Porseleinberg, the vines now around 10 years old, plus a block that is 26 years old from the Goldmine Farm. It was matured for 18 months in 2,500-liter foudres and 600-liter demi-muids. The open, expressive bouquet features blackberry, bilberry, iris and touches of brown spice and meat juices. The palate is medium-bodied with quite gentle tannin and a fine bead of acidity. Much more elegant in style, partly because the fruit is no longer sourced from Wellington sites. The 20-30% whole bunch works really well here, delivering fine delineation on the finish and white pepper and hints of sage on the aftertaste. Excellent 2020 - 2034.