Minimalist Wines 2020 by Sam Lambson
Minimalist Wines 2020
Wines of effortless balance, including the ultra-limited Stars in the Dark Syrah
We have secured a small allocation of the exciting Minimalist Wines 2020 Stars in the Dark Syrah. Now on its 3rd release, it forms part of up-and-coming star winemaker Sam Lambson's project. The 2019 was one of only two South African wines to be selected as a Vinous Wine of the Week, with an impressive rating of 97/100.
With a particular focus on Syrah, Sam concentrates on producing regional vineyard expressions in his wines. The 2020 Stars in the Dark Syrah is sourced from three parcels planted on sandstone, shale and koffieklip. Gentle vinification makes this a cool, feminine wine of effortless balance, exuding beautiful florals, rose geranium and slow-to-evolve white pepper spice. Pure fruited on the palate, with a horizontal, saline-cut finish – the 2020 is poised and very fine indeed.
Besides Syrah, Sam also produces one-off, small-batch bottlings from interesting vineyards in the Cape. This year, he's released an Elgin Sémillon. The 2020 Experimental Blanc is particularly elegant, with white fruit, lime and hints of tangerine. The palate is citric with an attractive, lingering texture from the portion of skin contact used. It's a wonderful rendition of this Cape heritage variety. Like the Syrah above, we have very limited quantities available.
