Tantalus Estate Waiheke Island Voile Syrah 2019

Tantalus Estate Waiheke Island Voile Syrah is an elegant, deeply flavoured blend of Syrah and Viognier from a single vineyard on Waiheke Island. Dark wild berries, blackberry and blue fruit meet violet, dried rose, clove, sandalwood and subtle leather, with savoury spice adding complexity. The palate is full-bodied and concentrated, yet remains vibrant and composed, framed by fine tannins and a fresh line of acidity. Eighteen months in French oak brings polish and structure without obscuring the fruit. Already showing attractive development, it is a natural match for slow-cooked beef, spiced lamb or smoked duck.

What the winery says:

The Syrah and Viognier were hand-harvested from a single Waiheke Island vineyard. Bunches were manually sorted and destemmed, with selected berries gently split before cold soaking in stainless steel. Separate parcels were fermented using wild, selected and house yeast and bacteria cultures, with regular hand plunging and air pulses followed by extended skin contact. The wine was slowly basket pressed and matured for 18 months in carefully selected French oak, then graded, blended and bottled without fining. The winery describes dark wild berries, sandalwood embers, dried cloves and florals, followed by blue fruit, dried rose petals, blackberry leaf, leather and a delicate tannin grip. Alcohol is 14%.

What the experts say:

Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review, 95/100 (2019)

Candice Chow, Candice Wine Chat, 94/100 (2019)
“This velvety Syrah Viognier possesses a fine-grained tannins framework and a delicate, lively acid line, wrapping rich layers, spices and positive developments to a long lasting finish.”