Boschkloof Epilogue Syrah 2023
By Christian Eedes, 2 April 2025
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In 2023, Stellenbosch experienced an unusual amount of March rainfall, posing challenges for producers working with late-ripening varieties. However, Reenen Borman of Boschkloof notes, “We were very fortunate to have picked the grapes for Epilogue before all the rain started.”
As has become standard practice, two-thirds of the 2023 vintage underwent whole-bunch fermentation before maturing in concrete, while the remaining third was destemmed and matured in 100% new oak barrels.
The nose is entrancing, bursting with violets alongside red and black berries, a faint note of vanilla, liquorice, and pepper – primary yet undeniably alluring. The palate offers clarity and depth of fruit, bright acidity, and silky tannins. Luscious in the best sense, Borman’s deft touch allows the wine to carry its oak effortlessly, finishing with a refined dryness, a whisper of olive brine being the final impression (alc: 13.95%). It feels at least 24 months away from revealing its true pedigree.
CE’s rating: 96/100.
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Gareth | 3 April 2025
Hi Christian.
How would you say this vintage compares to the great 2021 vintage? And also for my curiosity- do you get any of that minty character that I noticed in the 2015?
Jos | 3 April 2025
To add to that, how does it compare to last year. You scored it 1 point high, last year you criticised the lack of body and fruit compared to 2021 – is this year an in-between?
Christian Eedes | 3 April 2025
Hi Gareth, The 2023 vintage is an improvement for me on 2022, showing greater fruit integrity, though it falls slightly short of the 2021 in overall structure. As for its “minty” character, this likely belongs to the broader “green” spectrum of aromas and flavors, also encompassing fynbos and leafiness. I don’t detect anything overtly green at this stage, though that’s not to say it won’t emerge later on.