Description
Perfumed and spicy. Compelling aromas of violets, potpourri, and garrigue unfold over dark cherry, plum fruit and scented smoke. A large component of this Syrah hails from Karibib, a granitic site that lies in the path of a persistent cloud belt that runs over the top ridge on the farm. The resultant diffused light and cool temperatures safeguard the intense aromatic quality of the fruit from this vineyard. Brooding in the most delicate way, the fruit component of the wine is contoured and precise, carrying a real sense of presence, with a nervy quality at its core. Fruit from the Bottelary ward imbues backbone, adding inky cherries and plums, while Devon Valley’s bright strawberries refresh. Super silky tannins act as a lithe backdrop for all that complexity of flavour, melting gently into a detailed finish.
Reviews
Tim Atkin 96
If South Africa has a Grand Cru Syrah site, it is arguably Karibib, the main source of this superb red from Jean Smit. Blended with a 20% portion of Bottelary Hills grapes, it has violet and incense aromas, a palate of garrigue and tapenade, granitic freshness, fresh meat and blackberry flavours undertones of clove and black pepper. [Tim Atkin MW, 01/09/2023]
Producer Profile
Damascene is a seriously exciting new find in South Africa. Their maiden vintage was 2018 and we were blown away by the results. 2019, their second vintage was sold out on release.
The highly acclaimed Jean Smit, previously winemaker at Boekenhoutskloof, has teamed up with David Curl, former owner of Bordeaux’s Chateau Gaby.
Their goal is to explore all across the South African winelands in search of exceptional sites. Sites that deliver an important moment of insight, and hence the name of the project. A Damascene moment of clarity, where we can all understand the greatness of these small, prized plots.
The vineyards are old and well established but small, so each of these brilliant wines is only released in very small quantities. We urge you to catch them while you can.
