Lismore Syrah 2020

Region: Western Cape
Tasting note:

‘The 2020 Syrah starts with a firm, fresh, rustic frame with subtly spiced mineral essence. Notes of dusty purple flowers, savory wild herbs and plum blossom are expressed before seductive cherry aromas sway from the glass. Medium-bodied, the Syrah is fresh, focused and delightfully expressive, showing a succulent and youthful frame with balanced tannins and energetic acidity. The wine will continue to deliver pleasure for years to come. 2023-2032’ – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 94/100

‘Made from grapes donated by producers in Constantia, Elgin, Stellenbosch and Swartland. 50% whole-bunch fermentation. “Does it show terroir? It shows a lot of love,” says O’Keefe. Red and black berries, lavender, olive and cure meat on the nose. A dense core of fruit (despite an alcohol of just 12.5%) bright acidity and grippy tannins. A fascinating wine that keeps revealing its different origins.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100

‘This comes from donated fruit (Elgin, Swartland, Stellenbosch and Constantia). 12.5% alcohol and 50% whole bunch. Fresh and supple with direct fruit and a hint of mint and pepper. Bright mineral edge to the red cherry fruit with a detailed sappy edge.’ – Jamie Goode, wineanorak.com, 93/100

‘The 2020 Syrah comes from donated fruit from Stellenbosch, Constantia and Swartland, plus bought in fruit from Elgin and Walker Bay. This includes 50% whole bunch with 11 months ageing in barrel. It has a headier bouquet than the CWG Syrah tasted alongside, scents of boysenberry and bilberry fruit, perhaps more floral in style and very well focused. The palate is medium-bodied with a eucalyptus note on the entry, plenty of grip and weight, just a soupçon of opulence with a pastille-like finish. Very fine. 2023-2040’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 92/100

‘A wine that grew out of the disastrous fire that hit Lismore in December 2019, this Syrah was made with grapes donated by top producers in Constantia, Elgin, Stellenbosch and the Swartland. Fermented with 50% whole bunches and aged in 20% new oak, it has bramble, plum and blackberry fruit, lots of racy acidity and a sheen of cinnamon spice. 2023-28’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2022, 91/100