Yardstick Stellenbosch Syrah 2024

	By Adam Mason, former winemaker at DeMorgenzon
	From a tiny vineyard with poor gravel soil
	Only 4,000 bottles produced

Description

Adam Mason, the former winemaker at DeMorgenzon, is a man with a mission: to make grape- and terroir-driven wines from fruit from promising, distinctive vineyards in Stellenbosch. He does this under his own label, Yardstick Wines.

The Syrah is the newest addition to the collection; the 2022 is the first bottling. If you ask Adam, Syrah is South Africa's signature red grape. He harvests the grapes for this wine in a vineyard of just one hectare at the foot of the Stellenboschberg. The unique soil consists of clay and large pebbles, just like in the classic quality vineyards of the Southern Rhône.


Once harvested, Adam ferments the grapes in stainless steel tanks and leaves the skins in contact with the juice for about a month. To avoid disturbing the pure grape character in any way, he uses neutral yeasts. After pressing, Adam ages the wine in an oak vat. He bottles only 4,000 bottles.

The result is a beautiful Syrah expression, with pure fruit, refinement, and an energetic character. The wine has notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, black pepper, and toast on the nose, and a smooth, fruity taste with lovely ripe tannins. Worth discovering, all the more so given the competitive price!

Adam's tip: although the wine can be drunk immediately after opening, the Syrah presents itself at its best after decanting briefly.

Drinks with

Smooth, lightly spiced red wine to enjoy with a variety of dishes. Delicious with Dutch Brussels sprouts with Texel lamb, kale mash, or grilled aubergine with feta and tomato.

Tasting note

Deep ruby red wine with a layered aroma of redcurrant, blackberry, bay leaf, pepper, and smoky oak. Intensely juicy with red and black fruit, a balanced freshness, and ripe tannins. The finish is elegant with notes of black olive and cocoa.

Shelf life

Nice now; best before 6 days after harvest.