2017 Lismore Syrah Cape South Coast

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. 95 points

Greyton and Elgin are the joint sources of this delicious Syrah from one of the best exponents of the grape in South Africa. Explosively aromatic with violet and rose petal perfume, red cherry and raspberry fruit, subtle oak and some underlying grip from 50% whole bunches. Drink 2019-25. 94 points