2018 Smith & Sheth Cru Heretaunga syrah

Price: $40

Rating: Excellent to outstanding

Fragrant nose, dusty, riverstones, white pepper, earth/forest floor, red fruits. A cool feel, fresh and vibrant, ripe yet not oversweet, with deceptive tannins that build up. Garners a silkiness as it opens; I could plump for northern Rhone here. Complex, interesting, lovely balance, drinking superbly, yet potential too. Elegant.