Lismore Reserve Syrah 2017

Boss.

The Reserve Syrah from Greyton property Lismore is fantastic. Winemaking involved 40% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation lasting 10 months in 500-litre barrels. The nose is subtle and elusive with notes of cherry, cranberry, olive, white pepper, coriander and fynbos. The palate shows extraordinary purity and freshness while the tannins are super-fine. Lovely fruit upfront before an intensely savoury finish. It’s sophisticated but not too severe and gives real pleasure. Price: R680 a bottle.

Editor’s rating: 97/100.

Tasting notes for the other Reserve wines:

Lismore Reserve Viognier 2017
Price: R540
Matured for 15 months in French oak, 20% new. A top note of blossom before citrus and peach with a little reduction in the background. Dense fruit, snappy acidity and long, dry finish. Rather forceful and unapproachable.

Editor’s rating: 91/100.

Lismore Reserve Chardonnay 2017
Price: R540
Matured for 11 months in French oak, 35% new. A hint of reduction before intense citrus on the nose. The palate is direct and arresting – super-concentrated fruit, fresh acidity and great length. A very accurate take on the variety.

Editor’s rating: 94/100.