Mullineux Single Terroir Iron Syrah 2017

In 2007, after learning the ropes in some of the world's most iconic wine regions, Chris and Andrea Mullineux set up what is now indisputably one of the greatest of all South African wine estates. Mullineux has won accolade after accolade for its wines, especially those from the Single Terroir series, which are lavished with unbelievable care to create the truest expression of the Swartland vineyards they originate from.

'Iron' is the most powerful of the Syrah series, made from grapes organically grown in a single parcel of dry-farmed iron-rich "koffieklip" soils west of Malmesbury. Hand-harvested whole bunches were cooled and wild-fermented in 500L French oak barrels, once juice had been gently coaxed from the berries by foot crushing. Maceration and maturation proceeded slowly, with 21 months of large-barrel oak ageing followed by nine months under cork.

This really is a wonderful wine that reveals its greatest glories on the brooding, dense mid-palate. On the nose, dark berries intermingle with savoury notes and spice. In the mouth, it's so alluring, with succulent fruit, plump tannins and hints of orange peel, clove and pepper. The finish holds a gorgeously fresh note for minutes.