2017 Lismore Syrah
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Syrah continues to serve as one of the Cape's finest expressions of the variety. Gorgeous scents of raspberry, strawberry, Earl Grey tea and pomegranate seeds feature on the detailed nose; then the palate is lithe and silky, with perhaps more garrigue notes coming through with bottle age. Divine.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Syrah comes from Elgin and Greyton and includes 40% whole-bunch fruit aged in 500- and 700-liter barrels (30% new). It has a gorgeous bouquet of raspberry, pomegranate, burning embers and crushed violet aromas that seem to give the olfactory senses a big hug. The palate is quite brilliantly balanced, the fine tannins framing vivid brambly red and black fruit laced with cracked black pepper, dessicated orange peel, clove and an undercurrent of garrigue that becomes more prominent on the persistent finish. A fabulous Syrah from proprietor and winemaker Samantha O’Keefe.
On the nose, the 2017 Syrah begins with a dark-fruited core of blackberry, black cherry and a rustic rocky minerality with a soft spiciness. The palate shows remarkable focus and expresses the heart of Syrah with spicy floral potpourri notes across the mid-palate. The finish is long and thoughtful with a youthful tannic grip and lingering flavors of black pepper with smoky herbs. It is an impressive wine and is sure to please.
40% whole-bunch fermentation. Sweet red fruit, juicy and pert with soft tannin and a little earthy note on the finish with lovely snappy tannin. Superb quality with dignified, classic balance. (RH)