MacRobert & Canals Abbotsdale Syrah 2022

MacRobert & Canals is the partnership of South African winemaker Bryan MacRobert and Clara Canals, working across Spain and the Cape. This Abbotsdale Syrah comes from the Western Cape South Coast, a cool, ocean-influenced zone where sea breezes and a long growing season hold back sugar accumulation and keep alcohol moderate, here just under thirteen percent. The cooler ripening favours a peppery, savoury style of Syrah rather than a jammy one, fixing the aromatic compounds that give black pepper and dark fruit while retaining acidity. The wine is matured in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the tannins and adds a fine smoky note without masking the fruit. It is made to a vegan specification. The colour is deep violet red. The nose leads with dark plum and red berry, lifted by black pepper, cured olive and a wisp of smoke. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with supple tannins, savoury depth and a peppery, herbal finish that reflects the maritime site. Serve at 16 degrees, ideally with a short decant. It suits grilled lamb, peppered steak and roast vegetables.