2017 Rall Red Swartland

Illustrating the energy, focus and balance of the 2017 vintage, this is Syrah based with 25% Carignan, Cinsault and Grenache, this is always a very well-judged cuvée that consistently delivers more than the sum of its considerable parts. Savoury, sappy and denser than you think at first, it has considerable grip and ageing potential. 2022-29.

The 2017 Red contains Carignan for the first time, though Syrah still comprises 80% of the blend, along with Cinsault and Grenache. It has a very detailed bouquet with scents of black plum, blackberry, a touch of gravel and the 100% whole bunch lending a slightly earthy tincture. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannin, quite firm in the mouth and maybe more masculine compared to other Syrah-dominated Rhône blends, yet there is wonderful freshness and delineation here. It exerts a gentle grip on the midpalate and those schistous soils impart a wonderful mineralité on the finish. Outstanding. 2020 - 2035.