Novum Marlborough Syrah 2023

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Novum
Label Name:
 
Marlborough Syrah
Vintage:
 
2023
Country:
 
New Zealand
Region:
 
Marlborough (Southern Valleys)
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
13.5%
Grape(s):
 
Syrah (97%), Viognier (3%)
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
3
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
3
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
14-18°C

Awards/Ratings
The Real Review 93 pts (2024, 2023 release); Bob Campbell MW 94 pts (earlier/basket press vintages); Jancis Robinson (Richard Hemming) 18+ for Basket Press Syrah

Tasting Note
Cool-climate Syrah: lifted violet, blackberry and black cherry with white pepper, dried herbs and spicy oak. Mid-weight, angular tannins, concentrated dark-fruit coulis and a drying, spicy finish.

Food Pairing
Western: grilled or roasted lamb, beef, game (venison), charcuterie, mushroom risotto. Asian: Sichuan pepper beef, Cantonese char siu, Korean BBQ, spicy pork skewers, lamb skewers, hearty mushroom hotpot.

Production Method
Hand-harvested and de-stemmed; ~5-day cold-soak then indigenous open-top fermentation; 35+ days skin contact; basket-pressed; matured ~14 months in French oak puncheons (≈30% new).

Vineyard Info
Boutique Marlborough project by Will & Rachel Hoare focusing on small parcels and site expression; sustainable/organic practices; site planted on heavy clay soils with a small, high-density Syrah block.