Huntress Herringbone Vineyard Syrah 2023, Hawke’s Bay, NZD $48
The first syrah from talented Maori winemaker Jannine Rickards, who was previously chief winemaker of Urlar. Made with organic fruit from the Herringbone Vineyard in the Bridge Pa Triangle, employing 30% whole cluster fermentation in the manner of the northern Rhône, before ageing in barrique for 10 months. A versatile wine and an exciting debut for the variety under the Huntress label, which Jannine describes as “The bringing together of lovers of fine wine, wild food, and Papatūānuku—our Mother Earth.”
Vivid, tart cherry and wild berry fruit with sousbois and deep savoury spice undertones. The wine has a lot of freshness, crisp fruit with bayleaf and a long, mid-weight palate that tapers to an elegant, satisfyingly savoury bacon fat and plum finish that has plenty of bright acidity. Hints at carbonic maceration. Remarkably persistent, melting coulis of fruit with gentle spice. Satisfyingly fresh, light and delicious. Enjoy it young for its crunchy nouveau-like brightness or let it mature in the cellar for a few years to reveal the spicy savoury complexity within. (Screwcap)
Score: 91 ★★★★ – view original tasting note
Alcohol: 13.0%
Ageing: now to 2029
Food: venison with horopito and mushroom ragoût
Stockists: Huntress Wines; Regional Wines & Spirits, Wellington and online; Cahn’s Wines & Spirits, Auckland and online (NZ)
This Article was originally published on The Real Review
