DAMASCENE
2022 Syrah Ceres Plateau
The 2022 Syrah from Bokkeveld Shales utilizes 60% whole cluster fruit matured for 11 months in 2,000-liter Austrian oak. This has a more fruit-intense bouquet, perhaps partly from using submerged cap during fermentation. There’s blueberry and blackberry fruit, just a hint of iodine and garrigue surfacing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with filigree tannins, a slightly powdery texture, and a touch of flintiness emerging towards the finish. Very pure in style, gaining volume with aeration. I foresee this cuvée closing down for 2-3 years before exiting the other side. Great potential, but one for the patient. Drinking range: 2028 - 2048 Rating: 94+ Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Aug 2023)
In Bond
75cl bottles (case of 6)
* This is a pre-shipment/primeur offer. All orders are accepted under the TERMS of this offer which differ from the terms of the rest of the site.
Damascene
Damascene is a seriously exciting new find for us in South Africa. Their maiden vintage here was 2018 and we were blown away by the results. 2019, their second vintage was sold out on release, read the press release HERE.
The highly acclaimed Jean Smit, previously winemaker at Boekenhoutskloof, has teamed up with David Curl, former owner of Bordeaux’s Chateau Gaby.
Their goal is to explore all across the South African winelands in search of exceptional sites. Sites that deliver an important moment of insight, and hence the name of the project. A Damascene moment of clarity, where we can all understand the greatness of these small, prized plots.
The vineyards are old and well established but small, so each of these brilliant wines is only released in very small quantities. We urge you to catch them while you can.