Using Syrah from the Hopesgrove vineyard in Hawke’s Bay in a natural style, and designed to be served lightly chilled. In the glass it is darker than a rosé – a translucent, coppery ruby colour. Scented with plum, rhubarb, tomato leaf, toasted spices and cranberry. Light and crunchy with 11% alcohol, there is a little prickle of tannin in the palate and brisk acidity. As the wine warms slightly, some savoury notes of wet stone and loam add to that spice to give more personality. I think this summer could be the time for chilled reds – as an interesting alternative to rosé. 88pts
Aard ‘Le Petit’ Syrah 2023
