Donovan Rall Syrah 2021

Donovan Rall is one of the Swartland's most respected small producers, sourcing fruit from old vineyards across the Western Cape. This Syrah comes from the Swartland, a warm, dry region of decomposed granite and schist soils that yield low, concentrated crops from unirrigated bush vines. The hot summers ripen the fruit, but the picking is early and the alcohol kept to 12.5 percent, so the wine stays fresh and savoury rather than jammy. Rall works with minimal intervention, fermenting and ageing for around 10 months in old concrete lagars rather than new oak, which keeps the fruit pure and the texture supple while avoiding any vanilla or toast. The colour is a bright medium ruby. The nose shows raspberry and wild strawberry with black pepper, dried herbs and an earthy, savoury edge. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with fine tannins, bright acidity and a peppery, herbal finish that reflects the cool handling and the old vines. It is a Syrah closer to the northern Rhône in spirit than the New World. Serve at 16 degrees, with grilled meats, lamb or earthy vegetable dishes.