Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2018

The defining character of the Syrah from Boekenhoutskloof seems to have become a certain fluency, the wildness of the Swartland tamed and made palatable for those of delicate sensibilities.

Four-fifths of grapes for the 2018 vintage come from the Porseleinberg property and the remainder from Goldmine on the Kasteelberg, winemaking involving 40% wholebunch fermentation before maturation in large format, old oak vessels (600-litre barrels and 2 500-litre foudre) for 18 months.

The nose shows a hint of reduction before dark fruit, olive, lavender, fynbos and pepper while the palate has dense fruit, bright acidity and smooth tannins. Great depth of flavour, remarkably well balanced and admirably dry on the finish. “Suave” is the word that comes to mind. Price: R495 a bottle.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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