Off the Record Syrah 2021

2020 was the maiden vintage of Syrah from Bobby Wallace (previously assistant at Iona and now winemaker at family undertaking Paul Wallace Wines) and brother Mark based in Australia. From Ceres Plateau grapes, I wrote “Pleasing but a little more mid-palate intensity wouldn’t go amiss” (see here).

The follow-up 2021 is a notch up when it comes to concentration and vigour. 100% whole-bunch fermented, it was matured for 10 months in fourth-fill barrels. Lots of floral perfume, red and black berries, coriander and pepper on the nose while the palate has a dense core of fruit, bright acidity and very grippy tannins. Undoubtedly compelling, although the challenge down the line will be to achieve a little more finesse. Price: R330 a bottle.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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