Glenelly, The Glass Collection Syrah 2021

Glenelly Estate, located on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, South Africa, was founded by May de Lencquesaing, former owner of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Bordeaux. Her vision was to produce wines that seamlessly blend French elegance with South African terroir. The Glass Collection Syrah 2021 is a testament to this philosophy, offering a vibrant and expressive rendition of the Syrah varietal.

The 2021 vintage experienced a dry and hot post-harvest period, leading to early leaf fall and delayed cover crop establishment due to late-arriving rains at the end of May. Despite a wet winter, temperatures remained mild, resulting in a bud break 14 days later than usual. Moderate weather during flowering and fruit set contributed to optimal berry and bunch formation. The sustained cooler conditions led to a delayed veraison and ripening period, resulting in a harvest 10 to 14 days later than typical. These conditions fostered slow, even ripening with excellent natural acidity. Grapes were hand-sorted, and a combination of whole cluster, destemmed, and submerged cap fermentations was employed. Natural fermentation commenced with minimal intervention, involving two pump-overs per day. Post-fermentation, the wine remained on the skins for 1 to 3 weeks before gentle pressing. Maturation occurred over 12 months in well-seasoned 500-litre French oak barrels, predominantly 5th and 6th fill, to preserve the wine’s intrinsic character.

Appearance: The wine exhibits a bright and rich colour with deep purple undertones, indicating its youthful vibrancy and concentration. The rim shows a slightly lighter ruby edge, suggesting freshness and liveliness. The clarity and brilliance in the glass reflect meticulous winemaking, while slow-forming legs hint at a balanced structure with moderate alcohol and supple texture.

Aroma: The nose presents an alluring mix of floral tones, including delicate rose petals, intertwined with spicy fruit aromas. Leafy nuances add complexity, while pure red berry scents provide a fresh and inviting profile. Subtle notes of white pepper, cured meats, and a hint of crushed violets contribute further intrigue, enhancing the wine’s aromatic depth.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and harmonious, showcasing fine-grained tannins that provide a smooth texture. Flavours of white pepper and clove complement the core of spicy plum and dark berry fruits, creating a balanced and expressive profile. A gentle earthiness, along with hints of black olive tapenade and rosemary, adds a savoury element to the fruit-forward palate.

Finish: The finish is refined and lingering, with the interplay of spice and fruit gradually fading, leaving a pleasant aftertaste. The dark fruit notes transition into a savoury, slightly smoky undertone, reminiscent of charred herbs and dried blackcurrant leaves. The acidity provides freshness, ensuring a crisp yet structured conclusion, while the soft tannins create a velvety mouthfeel that lingers. A final whisper of cracked black pepper and subtle leather emerges, adding a layered complexity that invites another sip.

Food Pairing: This Syrah pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled or roasted red meats, such as beef or lamb, where the wine’s structure and spice enhance the richness of the meat. Game dishes, like venison or duck, are also excellent companions, as their robust flavours harmonise with the wine’s depth. For a vegetarian option, consider hearty dishes like mushroom risotto or roasted vegetable medleys, which align with the wine’s earthy and spicy notes. Aged cheeses, such as a mature cheddar or Comté, further accentuate the wine’s complexity.

The Glenelly Glass Collection Syrah 2021 exemplifies the estate’s commitment to producing wines that reflect both their French heritage and South African roots, offering a distinctive and enjoyable tasting experience