2022, Lismore Estate Vineyards ‚Estate Reserve Syrah, Greyton

An elegant and perfumed Syrah bursting with crushed violet, blueberry, and white pepper aromas, balanced by fine tannins, freshness, and a silky, graceful finish.

About the Winery: 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 Africaof 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.

Grape Variety: 100% Syrah ‚ sourced from dry-farmed vines planted at 300 metres elevation in decomposed shale over clay soils. This high-altitude site experiences dramatic diurnal temperature shifts that extend the ripening period by three to four weeks compared with most South African regions. The combination of shale soil and cool nights yields intensely flavoured fruit with natural acidity, hallmarking the elegance of this Greyton terroir.

Appearance: Deep ruby-purple with violet hues, vibrant and clear in the glass.

Aroma: Perfumed and expressive with aromas of crushed violets, blueberry, blackberry, and white pepper, layered with garrigue and savoury spice.

Palate: 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.

Body: Medium-bodied with refined texture and poised concentration.

Acidity: Bright and balanced, providing lift and elegance through the finish.

Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now or cellar for up to 8 years to develop savoury complexity and floral nuance.

Perfect Pairing: Complements grilled lamb, duck breast, or aubergine with herbs and olive oil.

Serving Temperature: Serve at 15‚17°C to highlight freshness and aromatic complexity.

Contains sulphites. Information provided to the best of our knowledge at time of publication and subject to change by vintage.