Tidying out a corner of the office I found a tasting sheet from a trip to South Africa in March 2001. At that time, there was great expectation and plenty of winemakers sure that Syrah was the next thing for South Africa.
It has taken longer than expected to take hold but finally South African Syrah is starting to make an impact. If you have not followed the Swartland Revolution have a look on twitter or facebook. At the Beautiful South Tasting in London this year I tasted alot of great Syrah, as well as Chenin, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet. De Morgenzon (founded in 2003) Syrah and Chenin Blanc stood out for a number of reasons not least of which were taste, price and packaging.
DMZ Syrah is fresh and peppery, red and black fruit, some grip to tannins “Crozes Hermitage” style.
DMZ Chenin Blanc is green apple, apricot, light honey and floral, use of some old French oak barrels and 4 – 6 months aging on lees.
