2021 Mullineux Schist Syrah

This is the top-of-the-tree Syrah from champion South African producer Mullineux, and it's worth every penny.

The Schist Syrah is the backbone of Mullineux’s single-terroir range, grown on the rugged, rocky soils of Roundstone Estate—the very vineyard that convinced Chris and Andrea Mullineux to put down roots in the Swartland. These schist soils produce a Syrah with serious structure, broad tannins, and deep, dark aromatics, making it one of the most powerful wines in their lineup.

Fermented with a high proportion of whole bunches and aged in large-format French oak for 11 months before resting in tank for another nine, this is a Syrah built to age. It’s full-bodied and savoury, with layers of black fruit, cracked pepper, and spice, all wrapped up in fine, supple tannins. Fresh acidity keeps everything in balance, leading to a long, complex finish.

This is Syrah at its most expressive—pure Swartland character with a refined edge. It’s drinking beautifully now but will only get better over time. Pair it with something hearty or cellar it for a decade to see its full potential unfold.

97 points
"This dryland vineyard on the Mullineux' Roundstone property is one of the world’s great Syrah sites, yielding tiny bunches of concentrated grapes. Intensely perfumed and alluring, the resulting wine has notes of lavender and wild thyme, fine, granular tannins and layers of red berries, liquorice and sweet kitchen spices."
- Tim Atkin MW (2024 South African Wine Report)