Yardstick Stellenbosch Syrah 2023/24

	By Adam Mason, former winemaker of DeMorgenzon
	From a tiny vineyard with poor gravel soil
	Only 4000 bottles produced

Description

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

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


Once harvested, Adam ferments the grapes in stainless steel tanks, leaving the skins in contact with the juice for about a month. To avoid disrupting the pure grape character, he uses neutral yeasts. After pressing, Adam ages the wine in an oak cask. 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 palate with lovely ripe tannins. Well worth discovering, especially considering the competitive price!

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

Drinking at

A smooth, slightly spicy red wine to enjoy with a variety of dishes. Delicious with Brussels sprouts and Texel lamb, kale mash, or grilled eggplant with feta and tomato.

Tasting note

A deep ruby-red wine with layered aromas of red currant, blackberry, laurel, pepper, and smoky oak. Intensely juicy with red and black fruit, balanced freshness, and ripe tannins. The finish is elegant with notes of black olive and cocoa.

Shelf life

Beautiful now; keeps at least until 6 months after harvest.