Porseleinberg Syrah, Boekenhoutskloof 2021

Given its consistently outstanding quality, it’s easy to forget that the average age of Porseleinberg's 14 hectares of vineyards is only seven years' old. Showing what Callie Louw calls a "little more crunch" in 2021, this is a Syrah with time on its side. Wild herb aromas of sage, oregano and rosemary introduce you to a palate that's dense yet refined, with lots of whole bunch spice and structure, negligible oak influence, detailed, layered tannins, some underlying grip and layers of dark berry fruit. One of the world's great reds from a very special site. 2025-32

Mid-ruby colour thanks to the submerged cap, the nose to the 2021 needs a little coaxing given its youth, but unfurls in the glass to reveal bay leaf, brine and high-toned bramble fruit. The palate is driven but elegant, a core of blue and red fruits framed by fine but firm tannins. Savoury throughout, with notes of rosemary, fennel and a hint of iron. The fruit wraps up this savoury complexity to offer superb balance. This is another outstanding vintage from Callie Louw, who has built Porseleinberg into one of South Africa's great wines, and a firm Farr Vintners favourite. Give it a year or two in bottle, then drink over two decades.