Porseleinberg Syrah, Boekenhoutskloof 2016

The 2016 Syrah was "a hell of a challenge," according to winemaker Callie Louw, but he produced an absolutely stunning wine, despite the parched vines suffering half the amount of rainfall. The wine was matured in 70% foudres and 30% concrete eggs. This was the first year the alcohol level breached 14.0%. The very expressive bouquet, more vivid than the 2015, features blackberry, bilberry, a touch of raspberry, cracked black pepper and just a faint hint of charcoal. This is a very cerebral Porseleinberg. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, outstanding structure, broody black fruit and gentle grip, and the schist soils are very expressive on a finish that feels fresh but extremely complex. 2021 - 2038