Rhône Theme

Timed Online Auction, 13 - 20 February 2023

Rhône Theme
About the Session

The first sale of the 2023 Strauss & Co Fine Wine Auction calendar is an exciting Rhône valley and Rhône-style offering.


Sold for

ZAR 5 628
Lot 14
  • De Trafford; Syrah 393; 2010; 6 (1 x 6); 750ml


Lot Estimate
ZAR 5 500 - 7 500
Selling Price
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
ZAR 5 628

About this Item

2010 Syrah 393
6 (1 x 6) 750ml

Wedged between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, situated on the beautiful Mont Fleur farm, is the boutique De Trafford winery. The Trafford family purchased the land in 1976 and a small vineyard was in place by 1983.

Known for their powerful reds with graceful ageing properties, the iconic 393 Syrah is a selection of the best barrels with half coming from their steepest terraced section (planted in 2003) known as the Tip Top Mount Fleur.

Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client

Critics Ratings

Features a dark profile, with blackberry, steeped black currant and melted black licorice notes rolled together. Fruitcake, plum skin and bramble accents add grip on the finish. Though still rather backward, this is showing more guts than polish now, featuring loads of charcoal-infused structure. Should age wonderfully. Best from 2016 through 2022. 56 cases imported.’ – Wine Spectator (April 2014), 94/100

From home vineyard, overtly spicy 10 shows blueberries, hedgegrow fruit & violets. Plum succulence & Provençal herbs, chalky squeeze of dry tannins add dimension & breadth to concentrated yet lively palate.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2013, 4.5*

The 2010 Syrah 393 was apparently affected by poor fruit set that led to looser bunches, but the fruit was picked before the mid-March heatwave. It is raised in 50% new French oak barrels for 22 months with two rackings. it has a ravishing bouquet with cassis, blueberry and violet scents that really express that Syrah with style and panache. The palate is rounded on the entry with slightly chewy tannins, plenty of depth here with a gently but succulent black cherry and blueberry finish. This is a well-crafted Syrah.’ – Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (October 2014), 90/100

‘(15.7% alcohol; aged for 22 months in 50% new oak; 4 g/l r.s.): Musky blueberry, black raspberry, mocha, licorice pastille and violet on the nose, plus a hint of smoked meat. Very sweet, concentrated dark berry and pepper flavors show a slight warmth and liqueur-like ripeness leavened by firm acidity. Densely packed and filled in but not heavy. Finishes with serious tongue-dusting tannins and excellent length. I suspect this will be better once it absorbs some of its baby fat and early sweetness.’ – Stephen Tanzer, Vinous.com (June 2015), 90/100

View all De Trafford lots for sale in this auction