2022 Mullineux Iron Syrah
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
From soils rich in ferricrete, or koffie klip, the Mullineux 2022 Swartland Iron Syrah shows a harder edge with aromas of blackberry skin, iron ore and tinned sardines from Spain. The size of the grapes is 20% smaller in the Iron vineyard compared to Granite, and you therefore get more extraction, tannins and a richer flavor profile. Of the three single-vineyard Syrahs, this is the richest. That fruit weight is presented with a supple side stitched into a strong tannic frame. This wine is made with 100% crushed whole clusters and ultimately appears clenched like a fist next to the others in the series. I recommend a longer drinking window.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2022 Syrah Iron comes from dry-farmed vines on deep, weathered soils with high ferrous content. It has a complex bouquet with more red than black fruit, scents of camphor, fresh fig and pressed black flowers and a hint of white pepper developing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, wonderful focus and notable tension. It’s very complex, with touches of black olive and black pepper toward the finish. Superb.
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.