Elgin Vintners Range Syrah 2023

Elgin Vintners Range Syrah 2020 exemplifies the finesse and depth that can be achieved with Syrah in a cool climate like Elgin. This wine reflects careful vineyard management and precision in winemaking, balancing the robust character of Syrah with the elegance that the region’s terroir imparts.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Deep, rich purple, indicative of a youthful and vibrant Syrah.
Nose: The bouquet is complex, offering aromas of ripe dark fruits like blackcurrants and bramble, complemented by smoky and herbaceous notes that add depth and intrigue.
Palate: The palate mirrors the nose with an array of crunchy, fresh fruit flavors including tart cranberries and blackcurrants. This is layered with notes of chocolate and sweet spice, contributing to a rich and satisfying tasting experience. The oak integration is seamless, adding structure without overpowering the wine’s natural fruitiness.
Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering notes of sweet spices and a hint of oak, showcasing the wine’s balance and cool-climate elegance.
Vinification and Maturation:

Vinification: The Syrah grapes were destalked but not crushed, promoting whole berry fermentation in stainless steel tanks. This technique preserves fruit purity and adds complexity. Initial punch-downs followed by daily pump-overs ensured optimal color and flavor extraction, while delestage enhanced the wine’s body and texture.
Barrel Aging: After completing malo-lactic fermentation, the wine was aged for 18 months in 225L French oak barrels, allowing it to develop additional layers of flavor and a smooth tannic structure.
Technical Analysis:

Alcohol: 14.43%, typical for a full-bodied Syrah, providing warmth and structure.
Total Acid: 5.9 g/L, ensuring freshness and balance to the rich fruit flavors.
Residual Sugar: 2.9 g/L, offering just a hint of sweetness to round out the acidity.
pH: 3.49, indicative of a wine that has both longevity and immediate appeal.
Food Pairing:
This Syrah is versatile with food pairings. It complements dishes like grilled lamb, smoked beef ribs, or hearty vegetable stews. It also pairs well with aged cheeses that can match its intensity and complexity.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16-18°C to best appreciate its complex flavors and aromatic profile.
Decanting for an hour before serving can enhance the wine’s expressive character, allowing the flavors to open up more fully.
Conclusion:
Elgin Vintners Range Syrah 2020 is a sophisticated expression of what Syrah can achieve in cooler climates. It combines intensity and elegance, making it a delightful choice for both immediate enjoyment and potential aging, with the complexity to evolve beautifully over the next several years.