Bekkers Syrah 2021

The stellar 2021 vintage is made up of two parcels from Clarendon and one from Seaview with whole bunches used in 28% of the final blend. Gentle pump overs and basket pressed, the wine is matured in a mix of old and new French puncheons. I’ve said it before that the aromatic intensity of Bekkers wines is what captured my heart, but what keeps me spellbound is the artistic ornamentation of texture, and if you are not sure what I mean, it’s perfectly demonstrated in this 2021 vintage. Black raspberries, boysenberries and prune plums followed by crushed allspice, black sesame and sandalwood. The wine changes pace from its aromatic density of fruit to a graceful energy across the palate. You’ll find a subtle oak weight that holds the compact fruit up high and acidity that echoes on and on. Assam tea leaves, black sand and pepperberry round out the final notes. It’s such a seductive wine for its purity, no makeup, no filter, just really good genes. Drinking well now and will cellar upwards of 8 years. Pour alongside a slice of rare roast beef.