De Trafford | Blueprint Syrah | 2018
De Trafford | Blueprint Syrah | 2018
Dense, concentrated, generous. This iconic Stellenbosch Syrah will impress pretty much anyone but particularly those who are fans of a premium Barossa Shiraz. Grapes sourced from the Keermont farm next-door, the Blueprint (a nod to David Trafford’s previous life as an architect) has naturally soft tannins so David uses only older oak during the 20 month maturation process which also retains the plush fruit and subtle nuances. While all of the De Trafford wines can age, their Syrahs are made for drinking now to enjoy the vibrant youthful fruit.
If you’re interested in comparing a Syrah from a similar vintage, same winemaker, but from the steepest slopes on De Trafford’s Mont Fleur farm, with a little more oak, try the De Trafford Syrah 393. 14% Alcohol.
Nose & Palate
Medium deep, ruby red colour. An expressive nose of concentrated blueberries steeped in spices with a subtle hint of eucalyptus and fynbos. A soft easy drinking palate that reveals a heap of delicious flavours that were suggested on the nose. Enough acidity and soft tannins to carry the wine to a long appealing finish. Drink now to 2030.
Pairing
Enjoy with slow roasted pork belly or a mild North Indian vegetable curry.
Accolades
93 Points - Tim Atkin MW | 4 ½ Stars (94 Points) - Platter’s SA Wine Guide
About the Winery
Great wines start with great vines. The hallmark of De Trafford is the effort spent growing ripe vines with a focus on yield, quality and sustainability, to produce truly outstanding wine.
Situated on the beautiful Mont Fleur farm, 380m up between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, the De Trafford winery was started in 1992 by former architect David Trafford and his wife Rita. After learning a great deal from local farmers in Stellenbosch and abroad in Bordeaux, David Trafford carefully chose varieties, clones and rootstocks to match the subtle soil and microclimate differences in the farm. Such careful attention to detail is carried through all facets of the growing and winemaking process at De Trafford - the result is seriously well structured and concentrated red wines which convey the personality and uniqueness of the mountain site.