Boekenhoutskloof Syrah

Boekenhoutskloof is one of the most famous addresses in South Africa's Franschhoek — a winery that has been showing since the 1990s what the Cape can achieve with Syrah. The cool mountain sites of the Franschhoek Valley, fed by Atlantic winds, give the Syrah here a freshness and tension that clearly distinguishes it from the heavy style of the northern Rhône.

In the glass, it shows dark blackberry and black cherry, underpinned by white pepper and dried violets — the typical profile of a cool-climate Syrah. Leather and a hint of clove join in with a little air. The palate is medium-weighted with present but ripe tannins and a lively acidity that carries the long, spicy finish.

Serving temperature: 16–18 °C. At the table, it pairs well with braised rack of lamb, wild game burger with rosemary, or a strong hard cheese like aged Manchego.