Safeguarded from the high-summer Swartland sun in February, the SCHIST Syrah was picked during the cool morning air and the 100% whole bunches were immediately foot-crushed into 500L barrels. Only natural microbes took the wine through its fermentations and only hand plunging were performed for completely
gentle extraction - just enough to keep the cap wet. After four weeks it was racked and pressed back to the same open top barrels. This completed the tannin development and allowed its dark perfume to flourish. The SCHIST Syrah spent 12 months in 50% new and 50% 4th fill 500L French oak barrels and then another 10 months in 2000L Foudre before being bottled unfiltered. 

Tasting Notes: The adapted natural resilience of the dry land SCHIST Syrah on Roundstone, has resulted in this wine showing pure freshness and superb concentration. The aromas show beautiful hints of Bergamot orange, fragrant dark African violets and nutmeg and the palate is lead by well-structured and harmonious Shist-derived firm tannins. This vintage has phenomenal ageing potential and would be best served at 16 to 18 °C. Decanting is recommended when the wine is opened in its youth. 

Food Pairing: Highly structured, powerful, and complex wine with firm tannins, notes of black fruit, graphite, black pepper, and wild forest spice. Due to its intense"brooding" nature and savory, mineral-driven profile, it pairs best with rich, hearty dishes that can match its weight. Grilled Aged Entrecôte (Ribeye): The fat and char from a high-quality steak complement the wine's powerful tannins. Roast Lamb/Leg of Lamb: Particularly with rosemary, as the earthy, savory flavors match the wine’s, notes of olive tapenade and herbs. Venison or Wild Boar: A stew or roast of game meat stands up well to the intense structure. Boerewors: Ideal for a good old braai.

ANALYSIS: Alc 13.34% | TA 5.1g/l | pH 3.81 | RS 1.8g/l