CAPE OF GOOD HOPE RIEBEEKSRIVIER SYRAH 2023

Lemon and grapefruit zest aromas with a dusty flint edge. Those same flavours immediately announce themselves on the palate, bright, tangy and vivacious. The interplay of fruit and zingy acid is beautifully harmonious and well judged. Underpinning it all is a structured, subtle lees depth which lends both body and length to the succulent mouthful.

Clean, crisp lemon sherbet zest and biscuit nose. The palate follows the same track: vibrant, crisp, clean and tangy with bright freshness. Focused and poised with gentle but beguiling flavours of succulent lemon sherbet and understated trace of orange marmalade before a richer, rewarding, broad creamy toast, biscuit and brioche note from time on lees becomes apparent. Persistent dry tail.

Citrus aromas with stone fruit, lemongrass and a light dusting of gravel. That same lemon and lemongrass vibrance is found on the palate which is both bright, taut and tangy. Lively acidity keeps the nectarine, white peach and zesty citrus flavours front and centre, but with a flinty, petrichor edge. Compact and firm, the texture and mouthfeel display a delightful tension that adds to the structure of this young wine. Lovely tension of opposites in its youth but it will evolve, becoming richer and fuller with age and careful cellaring.

Florality is the first observation, both elderflower and orange blossom – but then a subtle coconut biscuit nuance becomes apparent on the nose. The palate is vibrant and tangibly crisp courtesy of its youth. Taut, focused, and vital with zesty citrus and even lemon pepper flavour. Its perkiness is not without form: the wine has good body and frame with an understated lees element lending it breadth and texture. Refreshing, bright and characterful, it drinks well now and will also reward patience.