Black Cottage Syrah 2021

Black Cottage Syrah brings a generous, polished take on Hawke's Bay Syrah, with blueberry, plum and raspberry fruit layered with violets, black pepper and gentle savoury spice. The palate has plenty of flavour without becoming heavy, combining a robust mouthfeel with plush tannins and an earthy edge that keeps things interesting. Founder Dave Clouston and winemaker Sanna Stander sourced the fruit predominantly from the Gimblett Gravels, giving this an impressive regional pedigree at an approachable price point. A very handy red for braised beef, lamb or barbecued vegetables, and equally comfortable poured around the table on a relaxed Friday night.

What the winery says:

The 2021 Syrah was sourced predominantly from the Gimblett Gravels sub-region of Hawke's Bay and matured with French oak for 10 months. The winery describes bright crimson colour and a combination of blue fruits, plum, violets and spice, followed by raspberry, floral notes, black pepper and an earthy character on the palate. Plush tannins and a robust mouthfeel carry through the finish.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 93/100 and 5 Stars (2021)
"It's splendidly fruited and enticing on the nose with Black Doris plum, blueberry, rich floral and warm spice aromas, followed by a succulent palate that's plump and flavoursome. Beautifully framed by finely infused tannins, finishing long and delectable. At its best: now to 2029"

Cameron Douglas MS, 92+ Points (2021)
"Great colour and bouquet with dark ruby and purples, black currant and soft licorice spice, baked plum and a fine layer of pepper dust. Dry with medium weight and intensity, flavours of dark berries and spice, a light smoky wood quality and textures from firm-ish tannins and acid line. Developing nicely with best drinking from 2025 through 2030+"

Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, 92 Points (2021)
"Deep ruby with a purple core, even colour throughout. The nose is vibrant and enticing with aromas of blackberry, plum, herb, lavender and smoked meat. Medium-full bodied, aromas of blackberry and plum entwined with dark herb, lavender and smoked meat and liquorice. The voluminous mouthfeel embraces plush fruit and fine-grained tannins; lively acidity drives a sustained, rich finish. Match with roasted beef and lamb over the next 3-4 years. The fruit was sourced predominately from the Gimblett Gravels, fermented to 13% alc, and aged with French oak for 10 months."