Fogwell Syrah 2024

What might happen if Syrah from two of the Cape’s most exciting sites were brought together? Now in its second vintage, Fogwell 2024 (price: R540 a bottle) is a collaboration between Chris Alheit and chiropractor friend William Fogwell. One-third of the grapes come from a schist vineyard just north of Porseleinberg, the rest from Karibib in Polkadraai Hills. Winemaking sees a third of the Porseleinberg component whole-cluster fermented before maturation in older oak, while the Karibib portion is entirely whole-cluster, then matured in a combination of cement diamond and oak.

The nose is immediately alluring – red and black berries, a touch of pomegranate, floral perfume and white pepper. The palate is light-bodied, vivid and vital, showing great clarity of fruit, bright acidity and ultra-fine, supple tannins that taper to a dry, graceful finish. Elegant rather than forceful, it’s a wine of poise and quiet confidence (alc: 13%).

CE’s rating: 95/100.

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