Minimalist current releases

Sam Lambson founded Minimalist Wines in January 2018 with the intention of focusing solely on Syrah. He sources grapes from across the winelands, although operates out of a cellar situated in the Cape Town inner city. Tasting notes and ratings for the current releases as follows:

No Place Like Home Syrah 2023
Price: R405
Grapes from an Elgin vineyard planted in 2006. 30% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 12 months in older oak. Complex and compelling aromatics of red and black berries, fynbos, flowers, pomegranate and white pepper. The palate, meanwhile, pure and fresh with powdery tannins. Intense but not weighty, detailed and persistent. Alc: 13.29%.

CE’s rating: 95/100.

Stars in the Dark Syrah 2023
Price: R405
Grape from Cape Agulhas vineyards planted in 1999 and 2000. 35% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 12 months in older oak. Pronounced notes of fynbos and pepper, as well as red cherry on the nose. The palate is light and fresh, with crunchy tannins. A distinctly hipster take on the variety – slightly angular for some tastes, yet undeniably invigorating. Alc: 12.81%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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