90

2011 Trinity Hill Syrah by John Hancock, Hawkes Bay

( £13.50, 12.5%, Great Western Wine )

This is only the “entry point” wine from Hawkes’ Bay producer, Trinity Hill, but what a cracker is it. The addition of a splash of Viognier gives a little more aroma, but it’s the Syrah that drives the wine and gives it focus. Violets, plums and cracked pepper on the nose and palate, with spicy tannins and oak adding extra complexity.

BuyDrinking window: 2013-17Similar Wines: £10-£20, 86-90, New Zealand, Red, Syrah/Shiraz