Wine Pilot: 2024 Bekkers Clarendon Syrah. 97pts.

There's incredible depth to the red and blue fruits from the very first sniff, and it holds hands nicely with pink peppercorn spice. Cranberry, redcurrants and blueberry fruit notes intermingle with loads of Indian spice and turmeric as a top note. There's some bitter cocoa powder and dark chocolate tones in the mix but they're complexifying more than intrusive, and some subtle black olive beneath. There's some delicate mulch-like notes and some dried violet tones as a seasoning. The palate is eminently lifted with intensity but masterful flow. Cacao nib, dark chocolate, black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, a distinctly mineral feel, with the peppercorn spice dancing around the edges. The tannins are stacked but fine, weaving through the fruit as if to slice it up and diffuse any heft. What is particularly striking is the expansive feel through the backpalate, with the wine's intensity spreading through the finish to seemingly endless length. A touch of heat, but not out of balance. A remarkable example of the modern day potential of this grape in this place, masterfully crafted by the right hands.

Published August 2026