Critics Ratings

‘Using fruit from two exceptional Swartland sources - Goldmine and mostly Porseleinberg - this foudre-aged Syrah is fresh, subtle and intensely aromatic, as schist Syrahs often tend to be. Complex, floral and refined with remarkable freshness and palate length. 2020-28’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2018, 95/100

‘The nose is very aromatic with notes of red and black fruit, olive brine, dried herbs and violets plus some spice. The palate is concentrated yet still possessing plenty of energy – it feels less sumptuous and polished than the previous vintage and that’s a good thing, for me at least, contributing to greater drinkability. Also possessing wonderfully fine tannins, this is a very assured, sophisticated offering (alcohol: 14%).’ - Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 95/100 (Oct 2018)

‘Very deep blackish crimson. Tobacco nose and savoury. Polished and tangy. Complete and pure (Marc Kent admits that this is much purer than anything he made). Savoury and appetising, it finishes very chewy, fresh and lively in the way we have come to associate, rightly or wrongly, with wine grown on schist. Very 21st century!’ – Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17/20 (Oct 2018)

'Inky-crimson 2016 beautifully structured & understated. Ripe plum, mulberry, cured meat aromas & flavours accented by a smoky minerality. Mostly larger Austrian oak, none new; natural ferment & portion wholebunch. 2015 (5 stars, 95 pts) was the first from all-Swartland vineyards.' - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2016, 4.5* (93/100)

‘The 2016 Swartland Syrah is unmistakable with a dark purple core and black pepper on the nose with mineral-driven, black-fruited concentration and a soft, smoky presence. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and purely Syrah with some oak influences and soft minerality on the back end, followed by a clean, precise and long finish. Produced with natural, spontaneous fermentation, with 30% whole clusters added. 29,800 bottles were made.’ – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 90/100 (Oct 2019)

Provenance

Private Client