Mullineux & Leeu Syrah 2016 (75cl, 15%)

This is a 2016 Syrah from Mullineux & Leeu in the Western Cape, South Africa, in a 75cl bottle at 15% vol. The grapes come from seven vineyards aged between 21 and 28 years. Four sit on soils rich in schist and shale, two on decomposed granite in Paardberg, and one on iron-rich ground. Whole bunches ferment with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, with temperatures kept below 28°C and maceration lasting three to seven weeks. The wine completes malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels and ages there for fourteen months. It is deep ruby in the glass, with rich spice, citrus and floral aromas led by black fruit, lilies and violets. The palate is elegant and restrained, with good structure, a silky texture and fresh acidity, ending long with soft tannins.