Formerly known as the Block 14, the 2008 Gimblett Gravels Syrah is now augmented with other parcels, hence the change of name. It has a ripe, well defined nose with dark cherries, raspberry, damp earth and a hint of white pepper. The palate is medium-bodied with fine and gentle grippy tannins. It comes across as a more “tempered” Syrah compared to previous vintages, but it is well balanced and silky towards the pure blackcurrant and cassis finish. This divine Syrah will age beautifully. Drink 2012-2022. The wines from Craggy Range were tasted both in Hawkes Bay in January 2010 and then in London six months later. Steve Smith, Rod Easthope and the team continue to furnish consumers with a wide portfolio of terroir-based wines that satisfy both the value and prestige end of the market. Having tasted many of their wines, there is no doubt that they have ‘toned down’ their style, the initial releases being rather hubristic and a tad top-heavy with oak. This sense of refinement has lent the wines greater poise and breeding. Their reds are still their strongest suit, in particular their flagship labels such as ‘Le Sol’ and ‘Sophia’, but do not overlook their Chardonnays that exude great purity and Burgundian poise. Meanwhile their ‘Wild Rock’ entry-level range, which is treated as a completely separate entity to Craggy Range, contains some delightful varietals that form a neat introduction to the delights of Hawkes Bay’s wines. Importer: Kobrand Corp., New York, NY; tel. (212) 490-9300.

Attractive, pretty core of concentrated fruit - spiced blackberry and the like. Violet-tinged fruit on the streamlined palate, mineral streaks and a lovely, savoury facet, plus fine tannins. 13.7% abv.

Le Sol’s little brother isn’t yet available in the U.S., but it offers a decent introduction to the Craggy Range style of Syrah. Brandied cherries, complete with cinnamon and nutmeg are big and extracted; muscular yet not overdone, turning silky and mouthwatering on the finish. ——J.C.(6/1/2010)—— 89