2014 Mullineux Schist Syrah Magnum Swartland Mullineux Wines

The 2014 Schist Syrah comes from a single vineyard, Roundstone this year, which is why you will see it on the label. It has a more upfront and bolder bouquet compared to the Granite Syrah, darker fruit in comparison, hints of cola, curry powder and white pepper, perhaps Cornas-like in style. The palate is medium-bodied with smooth tannin, the used oak beautifully integrated (500-liter barrels and foudres), offering judiciously spice-tinged black fruit on the composed, nuanced finish that displays great length.

Full ruby-red. Knockout nose combines cassis, blackberry, black raspberry, flinty minerality, black pepper, game and a floral topnote (lavender?); this reminded me of the northern Rhône. Highly concentrated, vibrant wine with lovely mineral pungency and lift and a strong impression of savory extract. This firm but refined wine finishes long and classically dry, with broad, smooth tannins. This will need time in the cellar to express itself; in fact, my sample held up brilliantly for days while showing more mid-palate pliancy.