Vidal Estate (New Zealand) Syrah 2004
Syrah is most certainly not a grape that springs to mind when New Zealand wine is mentioned. Yet New Zealand Syrah is causing a real buzz amongst Kiwi winemakers and consumers currently, especially those emanating from Hawke’s Bay on the North Island, and especially those wines, like this one, from an area of stony old riverbed known as the ‘Gimblett Gravels’. This is very much Syrah rather than Shiraz , with a very European profile. The nose is quite reserved, with muted, meaty tones but is dense and savoury. The palate has a densely-textured, quite creamy mouth-feel, with red fruits and a peppery, meaty quality. Good length and balance here too. The2003 vintage might still be in some stores, but is well worth trying if the 2004 has yet to appear. 9.99 Noel Young, Valvona & Crolla, Thos. Peatling
