Metzer Family Syrah 2017

Wade Metzer, who made two versions of Chenin Blanc from the 2017 vintage which impressed all and sundry, has now released a Syrah and a Cabernet Sauvignon from that vintage plus a pét-nat 2018. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Metzer Family Petnat 2018
Approximate retail price: R240
From a Stellenbosch block of Chenin Blanc planted in 1981. Closed under Diam. A pronounced cider-like quality to nose and palate. Apple and some aldehydic nuttiness are the predominant flavours, the mousse very soft, the finish nicely savoury. Vastly preferable to the many commercial apple-based alco-pops out there.

Editor’s rating: 87/100.

Son of the soil.

Metzer Family Syrah 2017
Approximate retail price: R240
From a Helderberg block featuring three different soil types, necessitating four pickings over two weeks. 30% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation lasting 11 months in French oak, 10% new. The nose shows a touch of reduction before red and black fruit, geranium, fresh herbs and pepper. The palate is medium bodied with lemon-like acidity and fine-grained tannins – a subtle but undeniable “stemmy” character which will divide opinion. Alcohol: 13.5%.

Editor’s rating: 89/100.

Metzer Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Approximate retail price: R240
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Shiraz, 5% Cinsault.  Spontaneous fermentation before maturation lasting 14 months in French oak, 25% new. Red and black fruit, violets and some pleasant leafy character on the nose. Good depth of flavour despite coming across as relatively light bodied – pure, clean fruit, bright acidity and fine tannins. Untrammelled by oak and not overly forceful, this drinks beautifully. Alcohol: 14%.

Editor’s rating: 91/100.

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