Yardstick Stellenbosch Syrah 2022

	By Adam Mason, ex-winemaker of DeMorgenzon
	From a tiny vineyard with poor pebble soil
	Only 4000 bottles produced

Description

Adam Mason, the former winemaker of DeMorgenzon, is a man on a mission: to make grape and terroir-type wines from fruit from promising, distinctive vineyards in Stellenbosch. He does this under his own label Yardstick Wines.

The Syrah is the latest addition to the collection; the 2022 is the first bottling. If you ask Adam, syrah is the blue signature grape of South Africa. He harvests the grapes for this wine in a vineyard of only one hectare at the foot of the Stellenboschberg. The special soil consists of clay and large pebbles, as in the classic quality vineyards of the Southern Rhône.


Once picked, Adam ferments the grapes in stainless steel tanks and leaves the skins in contact with the juice for about a month. In order not to disturb the pure grape character in any way, he uses neutral yeasts. After pressing, Adam matures the wine in an oak barrel. He only bottles 4000 bottles.

The result is a beautiful Syrah expression, with pure fruit, refinement and an energetic character. The wine has notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, black pepper and toast in the aroma and a smooth, fruity taste with beautiful ripe tannins. Worth a discovery, especially considering the competitive price!

Adam's tip: although the wine can be drunk immediately after opening, the Syrah presents itself at its best after decanting.

Drink with

Smooth, slightly spicy red wine to enjoy with a variety of dishes. Delicious with Dutch Brussels sprouts with Texel lamb, kale stew or grilled eggplant with feta and tomato.

Tasting note

Deep ruby red wine with a layered scent of red currant, blackberry, laurel, pepper and smoky oak. Intensely juicy with red and black fruit, balanced freshness and ripe tannins. The finale is elegant with notes of black olive and cocoa.

Shelf life

Now beautiful; shelf life of at least 6 months after harvest.