"The 2017 Syrah Single Vineyard Series Steepside is matured for 20 months in seasoned oak. There is a slight reduction on the nose with dark berry fruit and light violet scents. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, well balanced and definitely a more elegant and understated Syrah with long and tender finish. Lovely.- Neal Martin"

- Antonio Galloni's Vinous (September 2022), 92 pts

"Offers lush flavors of black cherry and boysenberry compote layered with fragrant espresso crema, ganache, violet and anise, while fresh acidity and a tang of iron provide balance. Expressive and medium- to full-bodied, with creamy tannins delivering good tension and definition through the lasting finish. Drink now through 2030. 40 cases imported. - Alison Napjus"

- Wine Spectator (August 2022), 92 pts

"Steepside faces north and east and is situated at 300 metres on granite and clay loam soils. The result in 2017, that exceptional Cape vintage, is a world-class Syrah from Alex Starey, with a combination of violet and pine aromas, fine-boned tannins, subtle oak and bramble and black cherry fruit. Vibrant and energetic. 2024-35"

- Tim Atkin (South Africa 2022 Report), 96 pts

"It's good to see a top Cape Syrah released with a little bottle age, especially when it’s as good as this one from a warm, north-facing site on clay soils. Complex, dense and voluptuous, it has garrigue and tarragon aromas, understated oak and flavours of cooked meat, tapenade, damson and blackberry. Superb. 2024-30"

- Tim Atkin (South Africa 2023 Report), 96 pts