Mullineux Iron Syrah 2020

Mullineux & Leeu works in the warm, dry Swartland in South Africa's Coastal Region, where Chris and Andrea Mullineux farm bush vines on the red, iron-rich soils of the Kasteelberg. Iron Syrah is a single-soil bottling drawn specifically from these ferrous, schist-derived sites, which give the wine its dark fruit and savoury, almost bloody mineral character. The Mediterranean climate brings hot dry summers, and the old low-yielding bush vines and poor soils concentrate flavour in small berries. Fermentation uses whole bunches for added grip and perfume, then the wine is matured twelve months in 500-litre French oak followed by ten months in large foudres, a long, gentle ageing that softens the tannins and integrates the wood without heavy oak flavour. The colour is deep purple-red. The nose shows ripe plum and dark berry with black pepper, liquorice, smoke and a stony, earthy note. The palate is full and concentrated, with firm but ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted. It suits roast lamb, beef and game.