This elegant Gimblett Gravels Syrah has had some oak ageing giving a polish to the deliciously peppery spicy raspberry-fruit flavours. Vidal is a boutique winery in Hawke's Bay, wholly owned by George Fistonich of Villa Maria fame. This would be an excellent match for duck, game and lamb.
In the press:
"The syrahs of Gimblett Gravels in Hawkes Bay are coming of age and developing their own identity rather than just imitating the Rhône. And although still young, this shows where they're headed. With pepper and spice, plenty of dark cherry/blackberry fruit and soft supple tannins it's surprisingly forward. Drink now with roast lamb shank and dauphinoise potatoes or tuck away for a few months."
Jonathan Ray, The Daily Telegraph, 20 February 2010 (2007 vintage)