Exploring the diversity of Syrah planted in cool micro-climates of the Cape Sam’s passion and this label represents another step in their never-ending search to find the best sites in the Winelands. Working closely with farmers who share his passions for Syrah and precision viticulture, the idea is to provide a snap-shot of Cape Syrah in a given year, and to fuse the results in a bottle.

In other words, to Connect The Dots.

100% Syrah. Those who are familiar with the earlier vintages will recognise that a new ‘dot’ has been added to this label, signifying this addition of fruit from Agulhas to the blend. This year, the composition is 84% Elgin (Niemandsrivier), 9% Agulhas, and 7% Stellenbosch. A cool vintage, producing distinctly cool climate wines. A cool spring kicked the growing season off to a slow, far from textbook, start. After early leaf fall and uneven bud burst, wind and frequent showers persisted during flowering. High humidity late into the growing season caused high botrytis and mildew pressure, followed by cool weather which slowed ripening by three weeks. Though the result was reduced yield, extended hang time and careful selection in the vines has yielded an intensely coloured, decadent vintage.

The Stellenbosch grapes are grippy and lend floral notes, while the Elgin grapes display a more luxurious, spicy plumminess. The Darling grapes bring an austere and savoury edge to the blend. Collectively showcasing just how beautifully Syrah thrives in South Africa’s cooler Cape microclimates.