Soho Valentina Syrah 2022

SOHO Valentina Syrah is a single-vineyard Waiheke Island Syrah from the Carter Vineyard in Onetangi, combining ripe blackberry and plum with violet florals, black pepper, liquorice and warm spice. It is medium-full in body, with lively acidity and fine, polished tannins keeping the dark fruit fresh and energetic rather than heavy. Chocolate, savoury notes and a touch of oak add depth through the finish. This is a smart choice for Syrah drinkers who like richness with shape and spice, and it has the structure to sit comfortably alongside lamb roast, venison ragù or other slow-cooked meat dishes.

What the winery says:

SOHO identifies Valentina 2022 as a single-vineyard wine from the Carter Vineyard in Onetangi, Waiheke Island. Its profile centres on violet florals, red berries, chocolate, spice, liquorice and black pepper, wrapped in elegantly fine tannins. The wine is 100% Syrah at 13% alcohol, with oak including 30% new French and 10% new American barriques.

What the experts say:

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 96 Points and 5 Stars (2022)
“Pristine and gorgeously styled, the wine shows blackberry, sweet plum, rich floral, warm spice and roasted nut aromas on the nose.”

Cameron Douglas MS, 94 Points and Excellent (2022)
“Firm and dry as the wine touches the palate, tannins have a polished ripe quality and acidity delivers backbone.”

Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, 18.5/20 and 93 Points (2022)
“The fruit is bright and fresh with lively acid support; subtle savoury elements linger with velvety tannins to a sustained, enticing finish.”