Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2011: 93 pts

Editor’s Rating

93

Winery – Boekenhoutskloof
Wine – Syrah
Vintage – 2011
Varietal – 100% Syrah
Score – 93/100
Price – GBP £40.00 USD $52.94

Quite possibly the pinnacle of South African Syrah in my humble opinion, from the makers of the ever impressive ‘Chocolate Block’ and the inexpensive ‘Porcupine Ridge’ range that punches well above its weight, this is Boekenhoutskloof’s wonderful Syrah!

Oodles of violet, blackcurrant, prune and a wonderful heady scent of vanilla, all part of an intense, enveloping bouquet of aromas that will really make you smile.  There are tarry notes on both the nose and palate, that very much remind me of a clean, expressive, leaner than usual South African Pinotage. The oak layers and ripe juicy tannins make for a wonderfully characterful wine, that doesn’t stifle the freshness of the fruit and allows it to shine freely, atop a firm acidic platform.

Full of body, with a velvet mouthfeel, beautiful weight and persistent finish. The alcohol heat is warming and incredibly well integrated considering its 15% abv is hardly noticeable and compliments the rest of the wine brilliantly. The ageing potential of this wine could be enormous, fifteen years or more in steady storage should see this wine reach full maturity developmentally, with grace and poise.