2014 Mullineux Schist Syrah
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Tasting notes
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.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
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.
About the producer
Chris and Andrea Mullineux were at the forefront of South Africa’s new-wave movement and are now one of the country’s most established names. Alongside the Swartland project that made their name, they make wines in Franschhoek under the Leeu Passant name – a tribute to South Africa’s vinous past.