2021 Elephant Hill Airavata Syrah

Brand	Elephant Hill
Region	Hawkes Bay
Varietal	Syrah
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	13.5%
Vintage	2021
Country	New Zealand

Airavata is the crown jewel of Elephant Hill’s Syrah program, crafted only in the very best vintages and in extremely limited quantities. Winemaker Hugh Crichton brings together 67% Bridge Pa and 33% Gimblett Gravels fruit – two of Hawke’s Bay’s finest terroirs – to create a wine of sheer beauty and power. Inspired by the legendary Syrah’s of the Northern Rhône, a dash of Viognier is co-fermented for added aromatic lift and finesse. A touch of whole bunch fermentation adds structure and complexity — a hallmark of the top Syrah’s in the region. Matured for 22 months in French oak (33% new), the result is a rich, refined, and age-worthy Syrah that is both expressive and elegant. Dark berries, pepper, violets, and spice swirl in the glass, leading to a long, seamless finish. Airavata isn’t just a wine — it’s an experience. Elusive, exclusive, and unforgettable. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle, you’ll understand why it’s one of New Zealand’s most sought-after Syrahs.

Extremely youthful and deeply aromatic, best described as brooding, the norm for great wines in their youth. Notes of smoky bacon, white pepper, red berries, and blueberries.

The sheer opulence and depth of the velvety fruit is breathtaking, with an array of perfectly ripe black and red berry fruit delivering massive concentration across the palate. Incredibly fine tannins spread out to the remote corners of your mouth. It's vibrantly youthful with so much to offer, drinking Airavata any time before 2028 would be lessening the magic and greatness it holds for you if your patient – 2030 should be a starting point, peaking circa 2035+ and holding a further decade if professionally stored. Sensorial overload, meditational wine experience. Serve with all roasted red meats or savoury, pasta dishes. The recommended serving temperature is 15-17 degrees.