In order to accentuate the IRON terroir, the grapes were foot-stomped as 100% whole-clusters into open top 500L barrels where hand punch-downs took place to encourage natural and very gentle extraction. The fermentation cycles completed with indigenous yeast and microbes and after a further four weeks of maceration, the wines were racked and pressed to these original vessels for its maturation period. This wine was aged for 12 months in French oak 500L barrels, of which 50% was new, followed by another 10 months in 2000L Foudre and eight months of aging in bottle before its release.

Tasting Notes: The 2021 IRON Syrah brims with flavours of wild Dune-fig, dark plum and hints of tomato leaf. The Koffieklip soils give us a wine that is rich and round, with gravely but plush tannins and the full-bodied mid-palate, distinct charcuterie and chalky tannins are a true testament of its natural extract. The ageing potential is at least 25 years, and this Syrah would be best served decanted if opened in its youth at a temperature of
between 16 to 18 °C. 

Food Pairing: Structured, and complex wine characterized by notes of black fruit, violet, black pepper, and a distinct smoky, iron-like minerality. Due to its "blood and guts" savory nature, it pairs exceptionally well with robust, flavorful dishes. The best pairing for this wine is arguably a simple, well-seasoned steak, such as a grilled ribeye or Wagyu, to complement the wine's powerful structure.

ANALYSIS: Alc 13.5% | TA 5.5g/l | pH 3.80 | RS 1.8g/l