2023 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah

Grapes for the Boekenhoutskloof Syrah are picked from select parcels of the finest Syrah grown on two of our Swartland farms, Porseleinberg (90%) and Goldmine (10%), close to the small town of Riebeek-Kasteel. The Porseleinberg vineyards are planted on an extremely hard and rocky bedrock of decomposed Mica-Schist; a unique ward-defining terroir within the appellation. The vineyards on Goldmine sit on the south-west slopes of the Kasteelberg and comprise of Brown Schist with deposits of Table Mountain sandstone, which is weathered and washed from the adjacent mountain. The delicate combination of these two properties allow for this expression of both concentrated and structured wines, made from this Rhône grape.

The months leading into the 2023 Syrah harvest in the Swartland were textbook, with warm but moderate conditions, good soil moisture, and healthy vine growth pointing to a favourable ripening season. Later in the harvest window, the region experienced two significant heat spikes, a typical feature of the Swartland climate, which required careful vineyard management. Through attentive canopy work and selective harvesting, ripeness was successfully maintained, resulting in a high-quality Syrah vintage defined by balance, purity, and composure.

Tasting Note: The nose is complex, powerful and inviting with ample blue and black fruits and intense earthy, gamey aromas, with gentle whiffs of potting soil and forest floor. The dark berry profile of the nose follows through onto a fleshy, structured palate with flavours of blackberry, dark licorice and olive tapenade. The wine is full-bodied and expansive, with vibrant, integrated acidity and ripe, robust tannins balancing the opulent fruit profile. Red currants and exotic spice linger on a refreshing, pure finish.

Pairing Suggestion: Big game stew or some dark chocolate on a cold night.

Origin: Swartland, South Africa

Alcohol: 14%

Blend: Syrah