VARIETAL: Syrah

ANALYSIS: Alc. 13.4% Vol | RS 2 .2g/l | pH 3.72 | TA 4.9 g/l

ORIGIN: Cape Town

TASTING NOTE by Greg Sherwood MW

The Girl next door is a 0.38ha 16-year-old trellised vineyard grown on sandy gravel soils, that was originally planted for ornamental purposes. This 100% Syrah underwent spontaneous fermentation using 50% whole clusters before being basket pressed into neutral foudre for 10 months of ageing.

This 2021 expression shows plenty of attention to detail, with lofty perfumed aromatics of pressed violets and cherry blossom followed by pure pristine notes of black cherries, black plum, pink musk, graphite and subtle cherry cola nuances. Already beautifully intense and generously fruit forward, there is also incredible clarity and focus on the palate, with an overwhelmingly salty maritime twang that combines with a juicy mouth-watering acidity to give the wine striking drive and power, all executed in the most elegant and harmonious manner. Not too savoury or meaty, this fine boned wine excels on its purity of fruit and textural finesse. Drink from release and over the next 10 to 15+ years.

Wine Safari: 97/100 – Greg Sherwood MW