Syrah ‘The Graduate’ 2019, Meinert

A very attractive Syrah, with an exciting bouquet of lilies, cloves and cream. Delicate and nuanced on the palate, it’s more than a little reminiscent of Pinot Noir – not heavy, but with lots to unfold and savour. It could in theory last 5-10 years, but it’s so irresistible now that it probably won’t get the chance. The label does not say so due to South African wine regulations, but this is in fact a single-vineyard wine from a cool site in Hemel-en-Aarde. The local climate means that ripening happens extremely late every year: around two weeks after all of Meinert’s other fruit. The highly extended growing season results in the wine’s beautiful delicacy and fabulous intricacy of flavour. Superb!