2021 DeMorgenzon Reserve Syrah

Packaged in a heavy glass bottle, the DeMorgenzon 2021 Stellenbosch Reserve Syrah is a richly textured wine with dark blackberry fruit, barbecue spice and freshly cracked white pepper. It shows an almost impenetrable appearance and continues to the palate with full-bodied intensity. Both primary and secondary fermentation are in 500-liter barrel, with 25% new oak. The wine ages in oak for 12 to 16 months. 91 points

The 2021 Syrah Reserve comes from two parcels and includes 20% stems, aged in 35% new oak for 16 months. The plush bouquet has high-toned dark cherries, blueberry fruit, and hints of fennel and rosemary, which seem to calm down and gain more focus with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins and black fruit laced with graphite and white pepper. The finish is quite linear and focused, exerting gentle but insistent grip. Fine delineation, edgy and persistent, I see this maturing with reward in bottle. 93 points