The grapes used in creating our 2021 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah are handpicked from exceptional areas of their Swartland farms, specifically Porseleinberg (90%) and Goldmine (10%) located near the charming town of Riebeek-Kasteel.

The Porseleinberg vineyards are situated on a rugged and rocky bedrock of decomposed Mica-Schist, a unique terroir within the appellation. Meanwhile, the Goldmine vineyards, planted on the south-west slopes of the Kasteelberg, grow on Brown Schist with deposits of Table Mountain sandstone.

This delicate combination results in an expression of concentrated and well-structured wines from this beloved Rhône grape.

The Syrah was carefully hand-harvested. Fermentation took place in tulip-shaped concrete tanks, with 65% of the clusters being partially destemmed and remaining on the bunches. Gentle délestage was performed 2-3 times a day. Aged for up to 18 months in traditional 500L Austrian oak foudres and 600L demi-muids.

"Given that 90% of its raw material comes from Porseleinberg - the other 10% comes from Boekenhoutskloof's Roundstone property - it's no surprise that this is such an impressive Syrah. Fermented with 65% whole bunches, it combines fynbos, lavender and Asian spice aromas with a palate of white pepper, barbecued meat, oregano and blackberry framed by sappy, granular tannins. World class. 2025-35." - 97 Points: Tim Atkin MW

"Lovely fragrance with thyme, cracked pepper, iron, coriander and black berry fruit. Medium-bodied, peppery and compact, with vibrant acidity and a focused finish. Long and persistent. Drink or hold." - 94 Points: James Suckling

"The 2021 Syrah was picked later than the 2020. It contains more whole bunches than prior vintages (65%) and matured for 18 months, 90% in Stockinger foudre and Stockinger demi-muids. This is quite concentrated on the nose with dark berry fruit, bay leaf and white pepper, perhaps less floral than some of its peers. The aromatics feel tightly coiled at the moment. The palate is smooth and harmonious on the entry, with a fine structure. It is compact at the moment with cracked black and white pepper and garrigues notes flourishing toward the persistent finish. Much more backward than expected. I would cellar this for three to five years before cracking open as it’s a serious Syrah." - 93+ Points: Neal Martin, Vinous

Tasting Note: Powerful notes of ripe plums, elegant violets, and a refined spiciness. The flavours develop into pure, peppered black and red fruits, blueberries, deep liquorice, anise, and earthy undertones. The wine's full body is incredibly complex, with luxurious tannins and well-balanced acidity. Sweet tobacco and black cardamom linger on a sophisticated, smoky finish, with subtle hints of iron and tar.

Origin: Swartland, South Africa

Alcohol: 13.75%

Blend: Syrah