Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2017/2019

95 Points- Tim Atkin MW

The Boekenhoutskloof Syrah is sourced from two properties in the Swartland. They acquired these two sites (Porseleinberg and Goldmine) for its unique terroir of rocky bedrock and decomposed mica schist soils. This is only the third vintage claiming Wine of Origin Swartland and the blend comprises of 80% Porseleinberg and 20% Goldmine fruit. The 2017 vintage year followed another year of extreme drought and we were relieved with a more typical growing season than the previous two extremely dry, drought-stricken years. The Syrah showed more intensity and perfume than usual, our juice to skin ratio was back to normal again and the analysis for the acid was perfect, all factors contributing to a very fine structure in our wines.

The nose shows mulberry, dark plums, blackberry and intense whiffs of liquorice and violets. The entry is savoury and earthy with the dark berry fruit of the nose following through with notes of black cardamom, sweet tobacco and cloves. The mid-palate is full-bodied, yet elegant and lithe, with grainy tannins providing good structure and integrated acidity creating exceptional balance. Flavours of cured meat, white pepper and black olives lend classic complexity. Hints of tar, aniseed and espresso linger on a fine, silky finish.

Food Pairing
Roast duck with orange sauce.

Grape 
100% Syrah 

The Estate
Boekenhoutskloof is one of the most celebrated of all South African wineries and was indeed voted Winery of the Year 2012 by the influential South African journalist John Platter. Created in 1776 and situated in a remote corner of the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, the estate‘s recent fame dates only from 1993 when new owners completely restored the vineyard and established new plantings of varietals such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Viognier. 

Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech tree greatly prized for making fine furniture. The Boekenhoutskloof label features seven chairs; amongst them the country-style split splat chair made in the neo-classical style with a shouldered top rail and thonged seat from the late 18th century. The chairs on our wine label all pay tribute to the skills of the 18th century craftsmen and their achievements in creating beauty from natural sources, just like the pursuit of fine wine-making.

Alcohol: 14.35% vol