A welcome return to a wine that was my favourite New Zealand Syrah of last year – gathering a rather tidy 97/100 score: https://winefolio.co.nz/?p=1705.
Inviting and floral on the nose, with aromas of dark plum, cassis, redcurrant, blueberry and effusive but elusive spice notes of pepper, nutmeg and crushed allspice. Built around a core of supple tannin – polished and sinewy. A pulse of voluptuous dark fruit flavours and a hint of savoury earthiness, mocha and oyster-shell minerality. Complex, precise and generous. A marriage of rich generosity and subtle perfume – both robust and yet ethereal. Acidity lends a flowing brightness, and the French oak adds a seasoning of warmth and toastiness. The finish is concentrated, lingering and has a well-defined varietal edge. 96pts.
Based on your scores, it looks like you think the 2017 is better than the 2019.
Is that the true ?
It’s a close-run thing, but I’d say the 2018 by a tiny margin over this 2019. There was an wispy beauty to the ’18, where this one, so far (and, as you’ll know, this is a young wine with lots of potential ahead) has a bit more muscle on it. Both superb. We should get one of each and taste them side-by-side, yes?
I meant 2018 not 17
The ’18 was exceptional.