Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2016

95 Points- Tim Atkin MW

This Boekenhoutskloof Syrah showcases the quality of the dry 2016 vintage in the Swartland. The harvest produced smaller berries with a greater ratio of tannin to juice and much more concentration. Now completely in the hands of Gottfried Mocke, it is the standout wine amongst Boekenhoutskloof’s 2016 releases. Once again, it confirms their standing as a benchmark South African producer.

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: 14.47% vol