Greystone Waipara Syrah 2016

Description

• French oak
• Blackberries
• Peppercorn & spice
• Long & savoury finish

"I was moderately sceptical about the chances of making top syrah in the cool-climate of North Canterbury, particularly in a wet vintage, but this wine is proof it can be done. A rich, complex syrah with sweet plum, dark berry, dried fruits and spice and pepper flavours. Good now but with plenty of potential" Bob Campbell, Master of Wine, Real Review, Mar 2020

Deep black ruby in colour with a nose of black peppercorns, blackberries and herbal notes of thyme and marjoram. Palate of juicy Black Doris plums, red berries and game meats with bright acidity, structured tannins and a long, lingering savoury finish.

The 2016 vintage had a warm, dry start to the growing season which led to even bud burst. Shoot extension was reasonably slow due to dry soil conditions and flowering occurred in fine weather. Bunch configuration was large but open bunches with small berries. The growing season continued warm and dry with no disease pressure. Minimal leaf removal was employed to retain fresh acidity and crisp phenolics.

The freshly picked fruit was hand sorted before 100% destemming into small open top fermenters. Fermentation started after one week of ambient cold soaking and the young wine stayed on skins for one month before we gently pressed to French Oak barriques. The wine matured in oak for 15 months without racking and estate bottled without fining or filtration.