The Wolf & Woman Syrah 2023 represents a bold expression of the Swartland’s diverse terroir through meticulous blending. Winemaker Jolandie Fouché sources 90% of the fruit from iron-rich clay soils near Malmesbury. The remaining 10% comes from schist-based vineyards on the Kasteelberg mountain. This combination creates a wine with both aromatic density and a firm, grippy structure. Critics applaud this vintage, with Tim Atkin, MW awarding it a superb 95 Points in his South Africa Special Report.
This vintage offers a complex sensory experience that begins with a deep ruby color. The nose reveals an intense perfume of incense, black olive, and wild thyme. On the palate, you will discover layers of inky dark berry fruit and savory bacon fat. The 100% whole-bunch fermentation adds a spicy, peppery lift and fine-grained tannins. These characteristics earned the wine a high 94 Points from James Suckling and a strong 92 Points from Winemag.co.za.
The Wolf & Woman Syrah 2023 matured for ten months in older French oak barrels to preserve its fruit purity. Jolandie uses natural fermentation and minimal intervention to highlight the unique characteristics of the two vineyard sites. This process results in a wine with great focus and a long, satisfying finish. It drinks beautifully now after decanting but will evolve gracefully over the next decade. With only 3,000 bottles produced, this vintage is a rare find for any serious collector.