Donavan Rall’s wines have captivated me since my first encounter with them 15 years ago, and his Rall Syrah 2024 from Swartland, South Africa, is no exception.
This captivating wine has an alcohol content of 13% and is aged in concrete. It opens with floral aromatics that hint at stony nuances, complemented by the sweetness of black cherry and berry fruits. There’s a touch of green sappiness alongside elements of charcoal and wood smoke, making it richly intriguing. On the palate, it offers a fresh and supple experience with enchanting black cherry flavors, a hint of savory olive tapenade, and a dash of black pepper.
This Syrah exhibits a slight meatiness and a touch of saltiness on the finish, likening it to the styles of Crozes-Hermitage, yet with floral notes reminiscent of Côte-Rôtie. It draws a compelling parallel to the northern Rhône wines that I admire. I bought two bottles, and I find myself wishing I had purchased more. My rating: 95/100. I procured this wine from The Wine Society in the UK.