Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt's a shame that syrah has proven so not winter hardy, and especially when you taste accomplished wines like this 2022 syrah. From vineyards in Similkameen's Cawston and Keremeos, this destemmed syrah was co-fermented with 2% viognier over 3 weeks, then pressed and aged for 16 months in French barrels (75% neutral, no new wood). Smouldering black plum, fleshy black cherry, bacon fat, and cracked peppercorn run across a stony base, framed with structural, smoky, sticky tannins and easily lofted with windswept acidity. Not shy, give this some airtime now, or better yet, time in your cellar.Tasted: 22 May 2025Tasted by: Prices:
BC
$39.90
750ml
winery online/direct
Producer: Clos du Soleil WineryDistributors: Icon Vins Fins Grape: Shiraz/SyrahCSPC: 993295UPC: 857088000848
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBC's Similkameen Valley has been a revelation for syrah drinkers and while recent winter freezes have taken a toll on some syrah clones in the ground, others have survived, and Clos du Soleil winemaker Michael Clark says they will continue to plant and make wine from the surviving syrah clones. That is good news given the quality of the current 2022, which will be released later this month. The nose is a fragrant affair of florals, savoury sagebrush, and ethereal scents of black fruits. The palate reflects the same tone, adding graphite and mineral notes. Long, complex, and perfectly balanced, this is a winning wine from front to back. I expect it will age in the bottle easily, but you can enjoy it now with things like barbecued lamb, grilled beef served medium rare, or a mature piece of cheese. Big value here.Tasted: 10 February 2025Tasted by: Prices:
BC
$39.90
750ml
winery online/direct
Producer: Clos du Soleil WineryDistributors: Icon Vins Fins Grape: Shiraz/SyrahCSPC: 993295UPC: 857088000848