2016 McLaren Vale Syrah
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
A rich array of fresh, ripe red and dark plums, all framed in earth and spice complexity. The palate is assertive, concentrated and very intense with beautifully groomed tannins and a long, regal finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Syrah (released in August) shows delicate aromas of raspberries, cedar and spice. Medium to full-bodied, it's more delicate than the 2014 or 2015, with a fine, silky texture and a lingering sensation of berries and lace on the finish.
15 to 20% whole-bunch fermentation. Aged in French oak puncheons (550 litre) of which 48% were new. Unfiltered. Meaty and baked and rich on the nose, gorgeously spiced and smoky. Velvet texture and a long, very savoury ferrous character to finish. Such density! Tannins like fine, feathery down. And of course that opulent Aussie black fruit melding everything together. One of the best vintages of this beauty. (RH)