A Shiraz-dominated blend in the Rhône style with some Viognier to soften the wine on the palate and contribute towards a strong, aromatic wine. This wine is presented in a stylish, tall and slim bottle. On the nose, it promises red cherries, plums and dark fruits with hints of vanilla. It is well balanced on the palate, striking the middle palate first with cherries, dark and red fruits, then expanding to the side of the tongue with gripping tannins that soften quickly and leave behind a peppery and floral aftertaste. This wine was an older vintage, and it developed well over the past nine years, resulting in a balanced wine with velvety tannins.
When I presented this at a tasting, some people picked up a milkiness that can be ascribed to malolactic conversion, and vanilla from the American and French oak barrels in which parts of the wine was maturated. It is a rather complex wine that will pair well with red meats and game. Unlike many of its French equivalents, this wine can be enjoyed on its own as well, slightly chilled. It has an ageing potential of 10-15 years.
This wine is available from the farm directly and Partners in Wine.
Producer: Idiom
Variety: Shiraz 88%, Mourvèdre 9%, Viognier 3%
Vintage: 2013
Origin: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
Winemaker: Reino Thiart
Closure: Natural cork
Alcohol: 14.5%
RS: 3.0g/l
Average price: R400
Rating: 90/100

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