Craggy Range 'Le Sol' Syrah 2021

Craggy Range, located in New Zealand’s Hawke's Bay region, is known for producing some of the country’s finest wines, and ‘Le Sol’ Syrah stands as their flagship expression of Syrah. Grown in the famous Gimblett Gravels, a unique terroir of stony soils and warm microclimates, Le Sol translates to "the soil," highlighting the winery’s focus on capturing the essence of the land. The 2021 vintage benefitted from near-perfect growing conditions, resulting in a Syrah that balances power, precision, and elegance.

Appearance: Deep purple with an inky core, showcasing the intensity and concentration typical of Syrah from the Gimblett Gravels.

Aroma: An expressive and aromatic nose filled with dark fruits like blackberry, blueberry, and blackcurrant alongside savoury notes of black pepper, liquorice, and smoked meat. Floral hints of violet and subtle earthy undertones of graphite and wet stone reflect the unique terroir. A delicate touch of oak adds complexity with notes of vanilla and spice.

Taste: Full-bodied and layered, the palate reveals rich flavours of ripe dark fruits like blackberry, plum, and blueberry intertwined with savoury elements of cracked black pepper, olive tapenade, and cured meats. The tannins are refined and velvety, offering structure and depth without overwhelming the fruit. The wine’s vibrant acidity keeps the palate fresh and lifted, adding elegance and balance. The well-integrated oak brings a touch of spice, cedar, and vanilla, adding complexity to the fruit-forward character.

Finish: Long and sophisticated, with lingering dark fruit, peppery spice, and mineral notes. The finish is polished and clean, with fine-grained tannins and a refreshing acidity, ensuring further development over time.

Food Pairing: This elegant Syrah pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops with rosemary or slow-cooked beef short ribs, where the wine’s structure and dark fruit enhance the richness and bold flavours of the meat. It would also complement charcuterie platters or hard cheeses like aged Gouda, where the wine’s peppery, savoury notes shine alongside the cured meats and cheeses.