2002 Le Sol Syrah
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Tasting notes
Good full medium red. Superripe aromas of cassis, black cherry and roasted oak. Sweet, fat and dense, with blackberry and cassis flavors nicely framed by spicy oak. Good new-style syrah. Finishes with dusty tannins that turned a bit dry with aeration.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
One of the finest reds I have ever tasted from New Zealand is the 2002 Le Sol (300 cases of 100% Syrah), which boasts tremendous freshness, concentration, and intensity. It reveals the acidity and definition of a top-notch northern Rhone as well as tremendous presence on the palate as well as remarkable elegance and precision. All of Syrah’s characteristics – smoke, licorice, pepper, blackberries, and currants – are present in this beautifully knit, pure, concentrated 2002. Kudos to winemaker Steve Smith. Importer: Kobrand Corp., New York, NY; tel. (212) 490-9300.