Boekenhoutskloof Syrah

White pepper, violets, a hint of leather — the Boekenhoutskloof Syrah shows why the Franschhoek region is one of the most exciting Syrah addresses in the New World.

Boekenhoutskloof is located in the Franschhoek Valley, embedded between steep mountain flanks at an altitude of around 300 meters. The winery was founded in 1776 and is today primarily known for its single-vineyard Syrahs — wines that stylistically point more in the direction of the northern Rhône than in the direction of warm New World fruit.

On the nose, white pepper and violets dominate, complemented by cloves and a subtle leather aroma. On the palate, the wine shows dark berry fruit — blackberry, black cherry — with a spicy spice line in the background. The tannins are present but well-integrated, the finish long and slightly smoky.

• Food: Leg of lamb with rosemary, wild boar ragout, or aged Manchego
• Temperature: 16–18 °C