DECANTER 96 POINTS - "Vibrant raspberry and red and black cherry fruit, overlaid with considerable black and white pepper in this cooler vintage. The tannins have a beautiful finesse and feel tapered, crisp and fine. There’s a subtle but persistent flavour of tea leaves and a hint of violet, while the palate maintains beautiful tension and mouthwatering structure. Wonderfully vibrant and balanced in an energetic, aromatic style. Since 2015, the Syrah has been made entirely from Swartland fruit. In 2021, the grapes came from Riebeek-Kasteel in Swartland, with 90% from the Porseleinberg site (acquired 2009) and 10% from Goldmine (acquired 2014). Kent has moved away from fermenting in stainless steel towards fermenting in concrete in recent vintages. This is spontaneously fermented with 65% whole bunches and aged in 2,500-litre Stockinger casks and 600-litre demi-muids for up to 18 months." - Jason Millar
WINERY NOTES - Dark plums, black fruit and an intriguing savoury, gamey character dominate the rich, brooding nose with aromas of olive brine, exotic spice and gentle whiffs of cured meat, cardamom, and violets. Flavours of dark cherry, blackberries and mulberry follow through from the intense core of plummy fruit, with hints of red liquorice, cranberry and Szechuan pepper adding further complexity to the attractive sanguine character. The mid-palate is exceptionally smooth, round and lithe with superb complexity and elegance. The wine is focused, powerful and well-structured, yet shows finesse and plushness, with its silky-soft powdery tannins and perfectly integrated acidity to balance. White pepper, aniseed and cloves linger on a pure, focused finish, with subtle nuances of iron fer and tar.
WINERY NOTES - Dark plums, black fruit and an intriguing savoury, gamey character dominate the rich, brooding nose with aromas of olive brine, exotic spice and gentle whiffs of cured meat, cardamom, and violets. Flavours of dark cherry, blackberries and mulberry follow through from the intense core of plummy fruit, with hints of red liquorice, cranberry and Szechuan pepper adding further complexity to the attractive sanguine character. The mid-palate is exceptionally smooth, round and lithe with superb complexity and elegance. The wine is focused, powerful and well-structured, yet shows finesse and plushness, with its silky-soft powdery tannins and perfectly integrated acidity to balance. White pepper, aniseed and cloves linger on a pure, focused finish, with subtle nuances of iron fer and tar.
