5/3/10
Although Syrah has limited plantings in New Zealand, around 250 hectares, with most of those in the famous Gimlett Gravels region of Hawkes Bay, the varietal shows great potential and the 2005 Vidal 'Soler' Syrah is without a doubt one of the finer versions we have tried from there.
Just now coming into its prime, this offers up notions of white and black pepper along with game and boysenberry and black plum fruit. Medium to medium fuller bodied and supple textured, this is expressive and beautifully balanced without being heavy. Enjoy this lovely wine over the next 6/7 years.
Awards,
Reviews and other Notes
93 pts Wine Advocate Issue #176 Apr 2008
The 2005 Soler Syrah has an intense, deep, brooding Northern Rhone-style nose with more black rather than white pepper. The palate is medium-bodied, very supple and lithe with lovely balance and harmony with notes of briery, boysenberry, game and white pepper on the finish. Very good length, this is a sublime expression of Syrah and should easily last a good decade.
