The nose shows mulberry, dark plums, blackberry and intense whiffs of liquorice and violets. The entry is savoury and earthy with the dark berry fruit of the nose following through with notes of black cardamom, sweet tobacco and cloves. The mid-palate is full-bodied, yet elegant and lithe, with grainy tannins providing good structure and integrated acidity creating exceptional balance. Flavours of cured meat, white pepper and black olives lend classic complexity. Hints of tar, aniseed and espresso linger on a fine, silky finish.

98 Points – Decanter

This Swartland property is owned by Boekenhoutskloof but run independently by gifted winemaker Callie Louw. Alive and dynamic, this soars out of the glass, a touch of firework smoke to the vibrant berry fruits. Incredible energy and elegance on the palate, great freshness and focus, tiny tensile tannins and zesty acidity. Very long, this crackles on and on. The handsome labels are produced at the estate on a vintage Heidelberg press but dont assume there is any style over substance here: the 2017 Porseleinberg is a truly great Syrah.