Samsara Syrah 2017

Description

AN ETERNAL CYCLE OF LIFE – Samsara means ‘to flow on’ and pass through the states of life and death. This evolutionary journey through eternal birth and rebirth is how life develops consciousness and fulfilment. A wine deep in character, we named our incarnate Syrah, Samsara as it represents the perpetual renewal and revitalisation of Avondale’s living system.

SAMSARA’S EMBLEM – The well-known Celtic Tree of Life motif with branches and roots interwoven is symbolic of the continuous cycle of life.In its interconnectedness there is the strength and resilience that develops through experience and renewal.

GRAPE VARIETY – Samsara is made from Shiraz grapes of organically-grown vines that range from 15 to 23 years of age. They provide low yields of 4 to 8 tons of healthy, balanced fruit.

THE MAKING OF SAMSARA – TThe grapes were harvested early, at 23º to 24 º Balling. 10-15% were whole-bunch fermented for unique body and length. The rest were gently de-stemmed, tanked for 2-3 days, underwent natural fermentation, with warmer ferments at 30-32 º Celsius for 7-10 days. Slow post-fermentation maceration lasted 25 to 30 days. Malolactic fermentation occurred in 600-litre French Oak barrels, followed by 12-16 months of ageing before light filtration and bottling took place.

SAMSARA’S CHARACTER – On the nose you are greeted with soft wood, white pepper, violets, and vibrant red berries. This exceptional wine is full and well-integrated, with hints of plum, cherry, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper. The fruit driven palate is well-balanced, with firm tannins and good acidity delivering an unbelievable length.

WINEMAKER -Corné Marais

VITICULTURIST -Johnathan Grieve

ORIGIN -Paarl, South Africa

ALCOHOL -14% PH – 3.54 TA – 5.5g/l

AGEING – 2034

RATING 2016: James Suckling – 91 points