Brookfields Vineyards ‘Hillside’ Syrah 2019
Grape Varietal: 100% Syrah
Growing Region: Hawke’s Bay - New Zealand
Owner / Winemaker: Peter Robertson
5 Stars ★★★★★
This iconic New Zealand Syrah takes it names from a very special site. It was in the late 1990’s - after 20 years of exploring and talking with local farmers. Peter found and planted this most unique ‘Hillside’ site vineyard, located adjacent to ‘Bridge Pa’ (a small rural settlement) in the heart of Hawke’s Bay. The crafting of this small parcel ‘Hillside’ Syrah is only considered during the best growing seasons - and then given only the finest of treatment throughout its vinification and maturation in the winery.
The ‘Hillside’ site is sheltered from cool southerly breezes due to its curved northerly aspect, hence trapping added heat during the ripening summer months. These dry-grown Syrah vines thrive in this unique location - with the bunches producing savoury, complex flavours.
The vineyard was harvested in early April, and on arrival to the winery the intensely flavoured grapes were destemmed, crushed and fermented in closed fermentation tanks. Following pressing, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and then racked into a mix of new French oak barriques for maturation. After regular tasting, racking and when deemed ready, the wine was taken out of barrel after around 18 months and estate bottled under cork.
• In your glass, you will be greeted by an intense red colour with a magenta edge. On the nose, you are enticed by ripe dark fruits, dried herbs, pepper, subtle hints of vanilla and oak. These characters further develop across the palate, engaging your senses with wild berries, blueberries, white pepper, liquorice, dried herbs, tobacco, vanilla and mocha-coffee. Even though so young in its development, this Syrah has perfectly integrated, well-structured and supportive oak. The palate has an elegance with a refined complexity, and depth of varietal character, along with expressing a clear sense of place.
This 2019 Brookfields 'Hillside' Syrah has 13.5% Alc./vol. Classic dry style. If opened in the next 12 - 18 months decant for 50 - 60 minutes and serve in a generously shaped red wine glass at 16°- 18°C.
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 29/8/21)
With good decanting, approachable now; though will appreciate another 3 - 4 years and will repay and age nicely for another 8 - 10 years.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with tender lamb shanks with a red wine jus, slow cooked prime meats, well seasoned pasta dishes and earthy vegetarian cuisine, plus aged hard cheeses - enjoy.
