2016 Vidal Legacy Gimblett Gravels Syrah

Brand	Vidal Estate
Region	Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay
Varietal	Syrah
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	13.0%
Vintage	2016
Country	New Zealand

Only made in the very finest years... 2016 is a stunning reflection of that with 5 x 96/100 ratings, plus 2 x 5 Stars... it seems every critic of relevance is effusive in their praise for this impeccable, Flagship Gimblett Gravel’s Syrah. Vidal Legacy is winemaker Hugh Crichton's ultimate expression of the Hawkes Bay's signature grape. Crafted from 100% Gimblett Gravels fruit, 2016 will go down as one of the greats, as manifested in this stunningly aromatic and impressively concentrated Syrah. The pick of hand harvested fruit from the legendary Omahu Gravels and Twyford Gravels vineyards was given prolonged maceration on skins and aged for 20-months in the finest French oak… 43% of the barrels were new. At 4-years it is incredibly approachable but clearly this complex and deeply layered wine is a red for the ages… 20+ years under screwcap… were it wearing a prominent Rhone Hermitage label… its quality could command hundreds of dollars/bottle.

Stunning perfumes of dark dusky florals, graphite, leather, violets, blackcurrant, black Doris plum and liquorice.

Seductively rich black fruit with a purity that defies belief... clearly Syrah from the very top drawer further confirmed by its deep array of spice and savoury complexities. Beautifully structured Syrah with fine, powdery tannins and vibrant, rounded acidity transporting the generous, flavoursome body of liquid velvet to a compelling finish that is quite cerebral. It will evolve magnificently through 2026 and could well hold its condition for 20-years under screwcap.