Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Syrah 2023
Case Buys Only | 6 x 750ml
Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Syrah brings notes of Black Doris plum, blueberry and blackberry that lead this concentrated Marlborough Syrah, joined by violet, white pepper, toasted spice and discreet cedar. The palate is richly textured yet energetic, with polished tannins, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. It comes from Giesen's certified organic Clayvin Vineyard, a north-facing Southern Valleys site renowned for its clay soils and densely planted vines. Bold without becoming heavy, this is a compelling choice for Syrah drinkers who enjoy perfume as much as power. Give it air, then pour alongside grilled lamb, venison or slow-cooked beef.
What the winery says:
Clayvin Vineyard was planted in 1993 and is farmed organically, with high-density planting encouraging low vigour, deep roots and concentrated fruit. The 2023 Syrah was hand-harvested and hand-sorted, then given a gentle three-day cold soak. Fermentation took place with indigenous yeasts over 10 days, followed by extended skin contact and a 15-day post-ferment maceration to refine the tannins. The wine matured for 15 months in 300-litre French oak hogsheads, of which 27 percent were new. It has an alcohol level of 13.5 percent and a stated ageing potential of 10 years.
What the experts say:
Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 96/100 and 5 Stars (2023)
“Wonderfully fruited and engaging, the bouquet shows Black Doris plum, blueberry, rich floral, toasted spice, and cedar characters. The concentrated palate delivers excellent depth and richly textured mouthfeel, beautifully framed by layers of polished tannins, making it bold and structured with a sustained, harmonious finish. At its best: 2026 to 2037.”
Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review, 93/100 (2023)
“Fragrant, high-toned, perfumed raspberry and blueberry fruit with sweet florals and white pepper wrapped in sweet vanilla oak. There is a brooding aspect here which compounds on the palate. Earthy, ripe fruit tannins stained with purple fruit flavours and concentrated blueberry/blackberry, driven by energetic acidity. Youthful, and fairly long flavours with dusty wood tannins on the finish. This will meld and develop more complexity in time. Medium-bodied, elegant and energetic.”
