Michel-Schlumberger Syrah 1999

The Syrah grapes were harvested in excellent condition rather late in October on the 20th and 25th, benefiting from unseasonably dry weather. Indeed, the grapes had taken their sweet time to ripen but when they finished, the color and flavor concentration was exceptional. After cold soaking the grapes in the tank followed by a hot fermentation, the young 1999 Syrah was dominated by its fruity cherry aromas but with underlying layers of smoke, earth and spice presenting the distinct terroir of the vineyards. A year of barrel aging has added just a touch of sweet oak aroma and developed the finesse of a vigorous yet smooth finish. The wine now seems huge with lots of cherry fruit and complexing earthy aromatics. It is a big, mouth-filling wine—did I say huge already? Its gentle power tastes great with lean grilled meats rubbed with aromatic Mediterranean herbs, with polenta topped with Italian basil and tomato and/or grilled flavors. In summary, I find it's the perfect wine to make healthy everyday food seem indulgent.