| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | South Africa |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
The 2024 Estate Red Blend is a red Rhône, 100% whole bunch (except the Carignan), aged in a mixture of neutral and new oak, foudres and concrete for up to 24 months. This has a beautiful nose: perfumed raspberry and wild strawberry, juniper and subtle peppermint notes in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with crunchy, almost brittle tannins, a fine bead of acidity and the 20% new oak barrels neatly integrated, with more black fruit emerging towards the judiciously peppery, almost Cornas-like finish. Like the white, there is something assured about this debut red from the Lammershoek estate. Drink 2028-2046.
Stefan Johannes has a very clear idea of what he wants to achieve with Zwartwater and I like the direction of travel. This is an engagingly aromatic cuvée of Syrah, 27% Carignan and 5% Mourvèdre, with 73% whole clusters, 20% new oak and a concrete component. Flavours of blackberry, bramble and garrigue spices are supported by a spine of tannin and acidity and subtle reduction. 2027-32.
