Bought for $18 a few months ago from Hart Davis Hart. Given the reputation of the vintage, I figured it was a gamble but worth a try at a sale price. Opened it last night, and I'm very glad I bought this.
Clear dark red colour turning to brick-orange at the rim. The nose is lovely with perfumed aromas of leather, olives, earth and autumnal leafy notes. Quiet, subtle and rather light on the palate (only 12.6% alcohol - when did I last see that in a Syrah, or any other red for that matter?) with earth and leather dominating over faint red fruit flavours, bright acidity and smooth, well-integrated tannins. The flavours fade a little quickly on the finish, but that's the only minor complaint I could have about this.
Texturally, this reminds me of the few older Burgundies I've tried - very silky, delicate and subtle with wonderful aromatics. Plenty of complexity here with the flavour profile I'd expect from a classic old-world Syrah, and lovely with food. A definite thumbs-up (especially at the price).
