Epilogue is the wine that put Boschkloof on the map, and a benchmark for South African Syrah. It comes from a single vineyard block planted in 1996 by Jacques Borman, on decomposed granite capped with iron rich ferricrete in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. South east facing slopes and the cooling influence of False Bay keep the fruit fresh and the wine finely drawn. Today it is made by his son Reenen Borman, and the 2021 vintage earned a perfect 100 points from Tim Atkin MW.

The 2024 follows what the cellar calls a near perfect growing season, and it is classically styled. Christian Eedes of Winemag scored it 98 points. It is made in small quantities, with roughly 4,000 bottles released once a year. One for the cellar, and one worth opening with intent, now at Bx Wine.

Epilogue grows on a single block planted in 1996, in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. The soils are decomposed granite topped with iron rich ferricrete, and the south east facing slopes sit under the maritime influence of False Bay. Reenen Borman, who brings Rhône Valley experience to the family cellar, works with minimal intervention so that the site does the talking, and the 2024 season gave him ripe, healthy fruit to work with. Borman likes to build Epilogue in the cellar, bringing together separate components from careful picks. In 2024, 60% of the Syrah was fermented as whole bunches and then matured in concrete, which adds perfume, lift and a fine, fresh structure while keeping the fruit pure. The remaining 40% was destemmed and matured in 400 litre barrels, all of them new, adding polish and shape without overwhelming the wine. The two parts come together as a Syrah that is dense and textured yet fragrant and poised.  

Tasting Notes: The nose is strikingly perfumed, with violets leading and red and black berries close behind, a twist of orange peel, cracked pepper and a fresh, leafy edge, all with only the faintest brush of vanilla from the oak. The palate has both depth and breadth, with dense, concentrated fruit held in line by lively acidity and fine grained tannins. It is substantial yet poised, layered and unshowy, and feels effortless rather than built to impress. Classic in style, with perfumed and spicy aromatics over a textured core, it drinks well with a generous decant today and is made to evolve beautifully in the cellar.

Food Pairing: Peppery, floral and finely structured, this Syrah calls for food with depth and a little spice. Roast Karoo lamb with rosemary and garlic is the classic partner, and a thick cut of beef fillet or ribeye off the coals suits its dense fruit and fine tannins. Duck breast with orange and black pepper echoes the citrus peel and spice on the nose, while seared venison loin or slow braised short rib have the richness to match its weight. For a modern table, try miso glazed aubergine or a wild mushroom and thyme risotto. Finish with a wedge of mature Gouda or aged Gruyère. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees and decant for an hour or two.

Christian Eedes, Winemag, 98 points (Classic), April 2026. Eedes describes the 2024 as masterful, substantial yet poised, with a demonstrative nose of violets and berries and a palate of dense fruit, fresh acidity and fine grained tannins.  

ANALYSIS: ALC 13.82% | TA 5.1g/L | pH 3.59 | RS 2.1g/L