Clarendon Hills Piggott Range Syrah 1997

Looking at the wine it is a deep and dark red, purple, and almost black. There is no color loss near the rim and it is hard to determine whether it is clear because the color is so deep.

There is an amazing burst of aromas. The fruit flavors are ripe and sweet cherries with some dark berries thrown in for good measure. Underpinning the more prominent fruit is an earthy mineral component, which adds an extra level of complexity.

On the palate there is all that is all that is on the palate and more. Notbaly some roasted meat flavours. The fruit flavors manifest themselves in a juicy brew, and the vanilla from the oak is a little more in the background, but still present and adding to the overall richness and complexity of the wine.

Powerful but beautifully balanced tannins highlight the lengthy finish. This is a wine that will age for a very long time, quite possibly up to 20 years. Yet such is the balance you can drink it at any stage of its development and you will enjoy it.

As a young wine just compliment it with a simple cheese course, using aged hard cheese such as Reggiano or Gruyere and some quince paste as a little sweetener. After a few years in the bottle this wine will be perfect with rich flavoursome game dishes such a share and venison.