2023 Syrah

100pts Tim Atkin MW - "it's one of the most sublime Porseleinbergs yet, pairing aromas of incense, thyme and black pepper with firm, age-worthy tannins, blackberry, red berry and liquorice flavours and a stony, mineral core. Truly world class." 

There are few more sought-after South African wines synonymous with serious quality than the Syrah from the Boekenhoutskloof family from their owned Swartland property, Porseleinberg. Winemaker Callie Louw produces one wine from the inhospitable, rugged, windblown vineyards planted on harsh blue schist soils at the top of the mountain. Since the 2018 vintage, he has adopted one of the key winemaking techniques he took from his time working at Domaine Jamet - of submerging the cap (the solid mass of grape skin, stems and seeds that naturally float to the top during the fermentation,) a traditional method widely used in Europe in the 19th century, and at California's Ridge Vineyards since the '50s.

Tasting note: Clean-fruit forward vintage with pure red and black fruit on the palate. Tannins are softer up front with berries fruit, but the signature grainy grip and spicy and savoury finish.