Syrah from Northland – specifically on Paewhenua Island, which is near Cable Bay. A dark garnet red in the glass. Rich and complex aromas of blackberry, plum, dark cherry and liquorice, laced with woody herbs and black pepper. Ripe, full-bodied and gently spicy into the palate, where the oak trims the fruit with a touch of smoke and vanilla. A grip of tannin adds more structure and the acidity gives flow and direction through the palate. The vineyard overlooks the sea, and the wine has an echo of the outlook on a warm autumn day – breezy, sun-kissed and slightly wild. A plush texture rounds things out nicely. 92pts
Dancing Petrel Syrah 2023
