Mullineux Granite Syrah 2023

Mullineux & Leeu work in the Swartland in South Africa's Coastal Region, where this single-soil Syrah is grown on decomposed granite. Granite warms quickly and drains freely, giving low yields and small, concentrated berries, and it tends to push Syrah towards perfume, fine tannin and a distinct mineral grip rather than sheer weight. The warm, dry Swartland climate ripens the fruit fully while bush-vine farming keeps concentration high. Ageing is measured: twelve months in 500 litre French oak barrels followed by ten months in 10,000 litre foudres, so the wine gains structure and slow oxygen integration from wood without taking on heavy oak flavour, the large foudres softening tannin while preserving freshness. The colour is deep and bright. The nose shows dark plum, blackberry, cracked black pepper, woodsmoke and dried herbs over a stony core. The palate is full bodied and firmly structured, with dense but polished tannin, savoury depth and a long mineral finish. This will reward several years in bottle. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanted, with roast lamb, beef or game.