Mullineux Syrah 2022

Mullineux and Leeu is one of the Swartland's reference producers, founded by Chris and Andrea Mullineux in 2007 and drawn to the area by its granite soils and shale and its old bush vines. This Syrah is their regional bottling, blended from several old, dry-farmed parcels across the appellation. Swartland's poor, free-draining granite and shale soils keep yields low and berries small, concentrating dark fruit, tannin and the grape's peppery edge, while hot, dry summers cut by cool nights and Atlantic air ripen the fruit while preserving acidity. Fermentation runs on native yeast, frequently with a share of whole bunches to add lift and finer tannin, and the wine is barrel aged in older French oak so slow oxygen exchange settles the structure and keeps new-wood flavour in check. It is farmed sustainably. The colour is deep ruby-violet. The nose carries dark plum and red berries with black pepper, liquorice and smoke over an earthy, mineral base. The palate is full bodied and intense, firm and savoury, with ripe tannin and a long, peppery finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, and decant young bottles for half an hour. Good with grilled and roasted red meat.