Lismore Syrah 2018 vs Matt Parish Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2020

Lismore Syrah 2018

Lismore Estate Vineyards, located in the scenic Cape South Coast of South Africa, is the creation of Californian winemaker Samantha O’Keefe. Combining a passion for cool-climate viticulture with exceptional terroir, Lismore produces hand-crafted, boutique wines that are elegant, complex, and expressive. The estate is renowned for Syrah and Chardonnay that reflect their origin with finesse, minerality, and vibrant character. Vineyard The Syrah is made from 50% Greyton fruit planted in heavy schist soils (decomposed shale) with no irrigation, and 50% Elgin fruit grown in sandstone and shale soils. Both regions are among the coolest in South Africa, providing strong diurnal temperature variations that promote balanced ripening, aromatic intensity, and vibrant natural acidity. The vineyard management emphasises low yields, hand-tended vines, and strict canopy control to enhance varietal expression and a true sense of place. Winemaking Grapes were hand-picked at optimal ripeness. 40% of the fruit underwent whole-bunch fermentation in large 5,000-litre vats, with gentle pump-overs twice daily, allowing long extraction to develop structure and fruit concentration. The free-run wine was drained off, and the remaining grapes pressed in a traditional wooden basket press. Malolactic fermentation took place in 225, 300, and 500-litre French oak barrels, of which 15% were new. The wine matured for 12 months, developing finesse, complexity, and layered aromatics. Tasting Notes Dense and smoky black olive aromas open to cassis, blackberry, and cherry, with subtle hints of white pepper, ground herbs, and the floral perfume of crushed violets. On the palate, the wine is concentrated yet elegant, with fresh acidity, fine tannins, and a long, structured finish. A classic, cool-climate Syrah with depth, balance, and a true sense of terroir. Grape Variety 100% Syrah