2022, Lismore Estate Vineyards 'Estate Reserve Syrah, Greyton

How it tastes

An elegant and perfumed Syrah bursting with crushed violet, blueberry, and white pepper aromas, balanced by fine tannins, freshness, and a silky, graceful finish. Perfumed and expressive with aromas of crushed violets, blueberry, blackberry, and white pepper, layered with garrigue and savoury spice. Refined and textural with lifted floral notes, bright blue and black fruits, and elegant spice. 40% of the grapes were whole-bunch pressed, followed by cold settling for 48 hours and a slow, natural fermentation. The wine underwent a 28-day maceration for structure before ageing 11 months in 500-litre Burgundian barrels (35% new). The minimal-intervention approach ensures purity, balance, and a crystalline expression of cool-climate Syrah. Contains sulphites. Information provided to the best of our knowledge at time of publication and subject to change by vintage.

The producer

Californian-born winemaker Samantha O’Keefe founded Lismore Estate Vineyards in the foothills of the Sonderend Mountains near Greyton, an area that she pioneered as one of South Africa's most exciting cool-climate wine regions. At 300 metres above sea level, the estate benefits from snowy winters and warm summer days, producing elegant, classically styled wines with extraordinary purity and balance. The vineyards are farmed sustainably, and winemaking is conducted with minimal intervention to allow the distinct terroir to shine through.

Food and drinking

Good with poultry & pork, risotto and cheese. Drinking well now, with a decade or more ahead of it. Serve at 15–17°C.