Wine of the week: a triumphant syrah

2020 Rall, AVA Syrah, Swartland, South Africa

£52.68, justerinis.com

Every winemaking country in the world has its icon wines and superstar winemakers, and South Africa is no exception. Over the last couple of decades, Eben Sadie (Sadie Family Wines), Marc Kent (Boekenhoutskloof), Chris and Andrea Mullineux (Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines), among other luminaries, have captured the attention of the world’s keenest wine collectors with their scintillating creations.

I first came across Donovan Rall’s wines over a decade ago when I tasted his inaugural 2008 vintage releases. It was clear that he was a force to be reckoned with. Over the last ten years, I have been shadowing his new releases, and the other day, he came to London to present his current portfolio and a few soon-to-be-released wines. Every single bottle was a work of uncompromising art. I would say he is the most exciting talent in the Cape today. 

My chosen AVA Syrah is one of the most triumphant incarnations of the syrah grape I have tasted. While it will set you back a few quid, you can get in among his portfolio of stunning wines for as little as £20. The 2020 Rall Cinsault and 2020 Rall Grenache Blanc (both £21.68) and 2020 Rall White and 2019 Rall Red (both £25.68) are all soaringly delicious. Donovan manages to engender in his wines, whether white or red, a depth of minerality and integrity many winemakers can only dream of.

Matthew Jukes is a winner of the International Wine & Spirit Competition’s Communicator of the Year (MatthewJukes.com).