Vasse Felix Syrah 2020

A change in name from Shiraz in 2019 to Syrah in 2020 but no huge change in style, which has always been towards the more subtle side for this variety. The cooler 2020 vintage though has accentuated the savouriness and restraint of the wine although the tannins remain elegant. It’s quite shy to begin but builds nicely given time to sit in the glass. Deeply coloured, it opens with juicy black olive, earth, charcuterie and white pepper aromas well integrated with high quality oak. The palate is then bright and fresh, more mid weight than full, with brooding dark fruits and earthy flavours before finishing with grainy, balanced tannins. There is excellent fruit length to finish which bodes well for good drinking over the medium term.