Rob Geddes: 2023 Syrah Grenache, 96 pts

I could have reviewed their Clarendon Syrah 2023 for its extraordinary Rhone characters, but there are only 800 bottles available, so I kept returning to Syrah Grenache for its polished finesse, savoury complexity and sheer drinkability.

This is 55% Syrah from Clarendon and 45% Grenache from Blewitt Springs shows Syrah and Grenache are meant to be together in the hands of the Bekkers family. This has the fine wine quality of depth of complex flavours without heaviness or any excess in oak or alcohol, giving fruit flavours with finesse. Aromas are fine for such a ripe wine, coloured starting smoky dried herbs, dark cherry fruits, into peppery smoked smallgoods and liquorice.

The silky smooth, plush tannins glide the medium bodied long flavoured palate, unfolding exotic flavours, blue fruited with the classic character of McLaren Vale, middle palate generosity, but here with the finesse of the region's best sub-regions. The fruit is supported by evenly dispersed mouth coating fine tannins that go on to deliver a crescendo on the very long finish, lasting 10 seconds plus with cola coffee to keep you interested.

REVIEWED: July 2025
DRINK FROM: 2025-2033