I can’t recall the last time I had a South African wine. I was prompted to buy a couple bottles of this by multiple positive comments by Keith Prothero. Glad I did.
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2010 Mullineux Family Wines Syrah Schist - South Africa, Coastal Region, Swartland (8/17/2014)
Perfect fill and cork, pop and pour, enjoyed over 4 hours. Inky dark red core, minimal lightening at rim. Cassis, tar, cherries, game make for a nicely complex nose, with a tiny hint of alcoholic heat which dissipates after an hour or two. Medium body, palate follows the nose with interesting mix of roasted flavors and fresh balancing mineral acidity which give it a a Northern Rhone rather than a New World character. Plenty of fruit, medium-long finish with tannins lingering a little longer than the fruit at the end. Should last another decade or more. Excellent.