Critics Ratings

‘Loaded with blackberry, boysenberry and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors, this boasts accents of melted black licorice snap and roasted apple wood, delivering a long, charcoal-framed finish. Features range, depth and serious grip. Rock-solid and vivacious. Best from 2014 through 2022. 42 cases imported.’ – Wine Spectator (June 2013), 95/100

‘08 & previous listed as ‘Shiraz’. Natural balance best describes this vineyard, which includes full ripeness, but 09 offers more: espresso & smoky wiffs, Provençal herbs, the dark fruit’s freshness a counterpoint to the supple tannins. Slightly less concentration than seminal 08 (5*).’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2012, 4.5*

‘The 2009 Syrah 393 is raised 50% in finely grained new French oak for 20 months. It has a vivacious, opulent bouquet of cassis, redcurrant jus and fresh fig that is well defined and opens nicely in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with liquorice-infused black fruit and a touch of spice and sage towards the heady finish. This is an opulent, well-crafted, modern style of South African Syrah. Another set of superb wines from one of Stellenbosch's finest exponents: David Trafford (see also Sijnn.) These were mainly very well crafted, expressive of both varietal and place and should merit cellaring.’ – Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (December 2012), 91/100

Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client