Reserve Syrah 2007
| Vintage: 2007Varieties: SyrahArea: Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes BayWinemaker: Paddy Preston and Tim PrestonAlcohol: 13.5 %Awards: SILVER - Romeo Bragato Wine Awards 2008 GOLD - New World Wine Awards 2008 Tasting Notes: The Syrah grapes for this fine wine were sourced from Plateau Vineyard immediately west of Hastings in the renowned Gimblett Gravels, sited on prime gravel soils ideally suited to this rising star variety. This vintage is the first we have made following the Rhone custom using a small percentage of Viognier (2.4%) to give a lifted perfumed floral character. The grapes were harvested progressively from mid-April to early May, the Syrah averaging 22 brix and Viognier 24.6 brix. The Plateau Syrah and Viognier were destemmed, combined, cold soaked for 5 days and whole-berry fermented in tank followed by 14 days maceration and then racked to barrel for aging in quality French oak barriques. This classic deep purple-red Hawke's Bay Syrah is attractively scented, with vibrant aromas of blackcurrant, white pepper, spiced dried apricots and floral notes. The palate is rich and silky with fine supple tannins, oak complexity and pronounced forest berry fruit, white pepper, caramel and coffee flavours. Already immensely enjoyable, this wine will continue to flourish and reward cellaring for up to 5 years.
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