2016 Mullineux Syrah
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2016 Syrah has an elegant nose of red and black fruit with subtle black pepper aromas and soft florals tones. On the palate, the wine has a shy yet chewy red core with a tannic edge that drives through to the mid-palate. The finish is grippy, with a firm structure, tight red-fruit tannins and black spice wound up with complex mineral tones. While it may be food-friendly now, it will last for years to come.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
After the Kloof Street red 2017, this is more savoury and sober in aroma. Spice, pepper and dark fruit of pure Syrah. Some oak sweetness on the palate but counterbalanced by the finest of dry tannins. Chalky fresh aftertaste. (JH)
The 2016 Syrah is 100% whole-bunch fruit, and I think this gives it the edge over the 2015. It has a very fresh, focused nose with more edginess than the previous vintage, offering touches of peppermint and dried herbs. The palate is very well balanced with fine tannin - quite a "cool customer," presenting a longer, more precise finish than the 2015. Excellent.
About the producer
Chris and Andrea Mullineux were at the forefront of South Africa’s new-wave movement and are now one of the country’s most established names. Alongside the Swartland project that made their name, they make wines in Franschhoek under the Leeu Passant name – a tribute to South Africa’s vinous past.