Boekenhoutskloof Patina Syrah 2021

Boekenhoutskloof, founded in 1776 in the Franschhoek Valley of the Western Cape, sources this Patina Syrah from the Swartland, one of the Coastal Region's warmest and most characterful zones. The Swartland's decomposed granite and schist soils sit over low, dry-farmed bushvines, and the hot, arid climate with cooling Atlantic influence ripens Syrah fully while retaining a peppery, savoury edge. The wine is aged eighteen months in large old foudres rather than small new barrels, so the oak contributes gentle oxygenation and structure while leaving the fruit and the variety's spice in the foreground. At 14.5 percent alcohol it is ripe but balanced. The colour is deep and dark. The nose shows intense dark fruit, black plum, blackberry and cassis, threaded with black pepper, smoke, dried herbs and a hint of olive. The palate is full bodied and concentrated, with ripe tannin, savoury spice and a long, peppery finish typical of warm-climate Syrah. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant an hour ahead. It suits grilled and roast red meats, lamb, game and dishes built around dark, smoky flavours.