Damascene W.O. Stellenbosch Syrah 2021 Bottle size: 750ml

‘If South Africa has a Grand Cru Syrah site, it is arguably Karibib, the main source of this superb red from Jean Smit. Blended with a 20% portion of Bottelary Hills grapes, it has violet and incense aromas, a palate of garrigue and tapenade, granitic freshness, fresh meat and blackberry flavours undertones of clove and black pepper. 2025-32’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2023, 96/100

‘Grapes from three sites all on granite soils. 75% whole-bunch fermentation. Red and black berries, potpourri, cured meat and pepper on the nose while the palate shows good fruit density, fresh acidity and fine tannins. Great clarity and balance – seamlessly assembled.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 96/100

‘Expressing a refined floral essence, the 2021 Swartland Syrah offers a layered nose with savory spices and dark red fruit tones. More savory than the Stellenbosch Syrah, the Swartland Syrah has a delightful mineral tension and medium-bodied expression that offers fine-grained tannins across the savory finish. I can see this being better in time; be patient. 2025-2050’ – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 94/100

‘Perfumed and spicy. Compelling aromas of violets, potpourri, and garrigue unfold over dark cherry, plum fruit and scented smoke. A large component of this Syrah hails from Karibib, a granitic site that lies in the path of a persistent cloud belt that runs over the top ridge on the farm. The resultant diffused light and cool temperatures safeguard the intense aromatic quality of the fruit from this vineyard. Brooding in the most delicate way, the fruit component of the wine is contoured and precise, carrying a real sense of presence, with a nervy quality at its core. Fruit from the Bottelary ward imbues backbone, adding inky cherries and plums, while Devon Valley’s bright strawberries refresh. Super silky tannins act as a lithe backdrop for all that complexity of flavour, melting gently into a detailed finish.’ – Winemaker