The inspiration for this Syrah stems from my belief that the Elgin region has both a signature grape as well as particular terroirs within its demarcated boundary that reflect regional credentials. This Syrah was selected from a sub-region of Elgin from a specific vineyard and an individual clone : SH9c
Sourced from a single parcel in the Northern part of Elgin the 9c clone when planted in cooler areas is known to produce wines that are well scented, delicately balanced and savory. They are medium in weight resonating elegance, finesse of tannin, and purity of fruit, the flavors revealing more white pepper, violet/lavender, Victoria plum and iodine. They tend to exude freshness and energy with lively acidity giving precision to the wine. On Bokkeveld Shales it brings amplified perfume, more structural integrity and concentration to the flavor.
"The 2018 Syrah Deconstructed Groenland Bokkeveld Shale SH9c has a well-defined nose of red and black fruit, a little more lactic than Kershaw's other cuvées in this vintage. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity. A very faint licorice note develops, flanked by clove and white pepper. Very cohesive on the finish. Maybe it needs more grip, but otherwise this is a superb Syrah. - Neal Martin"
- Antonio Galloni's Vinous (November 2021), 94 pts
Richard Kershaw wines was founded in 2012, by Master of Wine Richard Kershaw. Richard’s mission is to focus on noble grapes and create clonally selected, site-specific, cool climate wines in ...
Read More
"One of two outstanding Syrahs in the current Kershaw line up, this comes from Oak Valley's clay soils, which performed well in the drought conditions of 2018. Intensely perfumed and refined, with effortless density and texture, cool climate pepper and clove spice, nuanced oak and layers of fresh raspberry and blackberry fruit. 2022-27"
"Vibrant, effusive aromas of blackberry with savory notes. Rich and ripe on the palate showing dense fruit flavors accented by lavender and cracked pepper. Aged 17 months in 500L French oak, 45% new."
"The 2016 Deconstructed Syrah Groenland Bokkeveld Shale SH9c reveals a smoky bacon, blackberry and black plum nose with subtle hints of lavender. The palate is rich with cracked peppercorn notes and refreshing elegance. It has a floral finish, still with grippy tannins. Give this one some time and your patience will be rewarded. The deconstructed Syrah lineup is interesting in that Kershaw has used two places to grow two different clones of Syrah but has made three bottlings from the possibilities. There were 621 bottles made of the Groenland SH9c Syrah. - Anthony Mueller"
