2013 Tamboerskloof Shiraz
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
(14.5% alcohol): Bright, dark red. Varietally expressive aromas of dark raspberry, espresso, menthol, herbs and smoked meat. At once fine-grained and tight, with intense dark berry, spice, licorice and black olive tapenade flavors framed by harmonious acidity. Finishes with serious but fine tannins and good length. Serious, youthful, firm-edged Syrah, in need of some patience in spite of its seamless texture and early aromatic interest. A touch of animal character adds interest.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2013 Tamboerskloof Syrah is blended with 4% Mourvedre and 1% Viognier. Gunter Schultz told me that he picked both this and the 2014 a little earlier than usual, fermented mainly in open vats with 10-12 days of skin contact with malolactic in barrel (19-20 months in French oak, 17% new). It builds on the promise that I found during my previous visit: "cool" scents of mulberry and raspberry coulis, a touch of blackcurrant pastilles, hints of orange blossom developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, crisp acidity, beautifully balanced, a subtle Syrah at first but delivering all the flavor and body you expect from this grape variety. It retains that Cornas-like finish I picked up on last year. This superb Syrah comes highly recommended. When you factor in price, it's a no-brainer.