2023 Mullineux Schist Syrah
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Tasting notes
The Mullineux 2023 Swartland Schist Syrah is savory and plush, with dark violet, grilled herbs and black fruit layered over a balanced, textural palate. The wine shows a more brooding, earthy expression from schist soils compared with the brighter granite version. The Swartland’s warm days and cooling maritime breezes help maintain both depth and composure. Mullineux's Iron Syrah was not made in this vintage because yields were severely diminished (by as much as 90% at this hilltop site) and remaining fruit was directed to the varietal bottling instead.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Syrah Schist has a rockier, more flinty bouquet with cracked black pepper, hints of charcoal and sage that entwine beautifully with the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with sculpted tannins, exquisite balance and it comes across tightly coiled but brilliantly defined on the finish. Superb mineralité and focus, this is outstanding Syrah that will age for 10 or 20 years.
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.