Wine: Ronnie Melck Syrah Family Selection
Vinyard: Muratie
Address: Knorhoek Rd, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch, 7605
Vintage: 2019
What the Winemaker says:
Intensely concentrated berries result in a wine displaying the bold refinement reminiscent of a northern Rhone Syrah. Rich blackberries, currants and cherries burst onto the palate, while hints of black olive, pepper, smoke and even bacon add savoury appeal. Tannins are firm but fine-grained and a very long finish promises great ageing potential.
Review
Aroma: 19/20
Bold dark fruit aroma with a white pepper infusion.
Appearance: 8/10
A beautiful, dark burgundy red colour, with long legs this wine is immediately tempting. There is a trend for “natural” wine at the moment, and in keeping with that Muratie says this was bottled unfined and unfiltered. We allowed it to settle any sediment before pouring, and I assume it was racked from the lees, because once poured there was very little difference in appearance from a filtered wine.
Flavour: 38/40
The blackberries and plums on the nose are backed up in the flavour. You’ll also find pepper, cloves, and the subtlest hint of vanilla blended with a subtle cigar box smokiness. It closes with a long, rounded aftertaste.
Mouthfeel: 9/10
The palate is round and smooth with a lovely, velvety warmth. Well-balanced acids and tannins hint that there is plenty of aging to come
Overall Impression: 18/20
This is a limited release with each bottle hand numbered and that kind of exclusivity really shows in the quality of the wine. 14.3% alcohol is pretty typical of a warmer climate shiraz, and fractionally lower than some examples I have tasted in the past. Try it with a lamb shank for a perfect meal.
Total of out of 100 points:
92
Score Breakdown
100 to 95: World beater – Make a plan to try this before you die
94 to 90: Excellent – Drink this now
89 to 85: Good – Thoroughly enjoyable
84 to 75: It’ll do – You won’t remember it
74 and below: Don’t waste your time
