The Art of Crafting Conebush Syrah: Insights from the Cellar Master

 

As the cellar master at Lomond Wines, I have the privilege of overseeing the intricate process of transforming our carefully cultivated grapes into exceptional wines.

Today, I am delighted to share with you the journey of our Conebush Syrah, a wine that encapsulates the essence of our unique terroir and meticulous winemaking techniques.

Lomond-Wines-Conebush-Syrah

 

 

The Terroir: A Symphony of Nature

The journey of our Conebush Syrah begins in the rugged, windswept vineyards of Lomond. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Agulhas Plain, our vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate that is ideal for Syrah grapes. The cooling sea breezes temper the heat of the sun, allowing our grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavours.

Our single vineyard is planted on a unique soil type, which imparts distinct mineral characteristics to the wine. The “Cone Bush” name pays homage to the indigenous fynbos flora that flourishes around our vineyards, adding to the biodiversity and health of the soil. This unique environment is the first step in crafting a Syrah that is truly expressive of its origin.

 

Harvesting: The Perfect Timing

Harvesting is both a science and an art. For our Conebush Syrah, we carefully monitor the grapes, waiting for the perfect balance of sugar, acidity, and phenolic ripeness. This usually occurs in the early morning hours, when the grapes are cool and the flavours are at their peak. Each cluster is handpicked to ensure only the best grapes make it into our wine.

Fermentation: Nurturing Complexity

Once the grapes are harvested, they are gently destemmed and sorted before undergoing a cold soak. This process enhances the extraction of colour and flavour from the skins. Fermentation takes place in small, open-top fermenters, where we use a combination of natural and cultured yeasts to initiate the process.

During fermentation, we practice regular punch-downs to ensure optimal extraction of tannins and anthocyanins. This not only contributes to the wine’s structure but also its deep, rich colour. The fermentation process is closely monitored, with temperatures carefully controlled to preserve the delicate aromas and flavours.

 


Lomond Wines - Conebush Syrah

Aging: Patience and Precision

After fermentation, the Conebush Syrah is transferred to a combination of French oak barrels for aging. The selection of barrels is crucial; we use a mix of new and seasoned oak to impart subtle nuances without overwhelming the natural fruit character. The wine spends approximately 12 to 18 months in the barrel, during which it undergoes malolactic fermentation, softening the acidity and enhancing the mouthfeel.

Regular tastings are conducted throughout the aging process to monitor the wine’s development. This period allows the wine to evolve, gaining complexity and integrating the flavours seamlessly. The final blend is crafted with precision, ensuring that each bottle of Conebush Syrah reflects our commitment to quality and authenticity.

 


 

The Final Product: A Testament to Craftsmanship

The result of our meticulous efforts is a Syrah that is both powerful and elegant. The Conebush Syrah boasts aromas of dark berries, black pepper, and subtle floral notes, a testament to the terroir and careful winemaking. On the palate, it is full-bodied with fine tannins and a long, lingering finish.

Lomond Wine Estate Conebush Bundle Special

Every bottle of Conebush Syrah tells a story of the land, the climate, and the dedication of our team at Lomond Wines. As the cellar master, it is a privilege to shepherd this wine from grape to glass, ensuring that each sip offers a true taste of our unique corner of the world. We invite you to experience the Conebush Syrah and join us in celebrating the art of winemaking.

For the month of June we are offering you the opportunity to purchase Conebush Single Vineyard Syrah with a buy 5 get 6 special offer PLUS free delivery on ANY wine if you purchase 12 bottles.

Plus – NEWS JUST IN – Conebush wins gold at the UK Sommelier Wine Awards.

 

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