Embodying the eternal cycle of life, Samara means to “flow on” and pass through the states of life and death. A wine deep in character, Avondale named its Syrah after this evolutionary process to represent the perpetual renewal and revitalisation of the farm’s living eco-systems. The wine was made from Syrah grapes from organically-grown vines that range from 10 to 15 years of age. The grapes were harvested in the early mornings, de-stemmed and gently crushed before going into tanks for two to three days. Fermentation took place for seven to ten days before post-fermentation maceration over 25 to 30 days. After a number of gentle rackings, the wine was aged in French Oak barrels for just over a year. The classic Syrah has a spectacular balance of tannin, fruit and oak across a lengthy palate and includes sophisticated characteristics and scents of soft wood, white pepper, wild berries and fynbos. Samsara is full, round and undeniably grape-tasting with hints of mulberry, plum, clove and cinnamon. Samara pairs beautifully with spicy dishes or a hearty winter broth, such as Parsnip and Artichoke soup. The Samsara Syrah is now available from Avondale at R285 per bottle. For more information about Avondale and its range of nature-friendly wines, visit www.avondalewine.co.za.