2018 Le Sol Syrah

Highly reductive at first, with struck match dominating the nose, so this ought to be decanted. I left it in the glass for an hour, which allowed black cherry fruit, plum, cedar, festive spices and mocha to emerge. On the midpalate, it's a polished, midweight style. The robust nature of tannins in Gimblett Gravels can be witnessed in this youthful example, creating a dry, firm finish. The acidity is mouthwatering with festive spices, fruitcake and mocha lingering on the lengthy finish. While ambitious, 2018 won't be the greatest season for Gimblett Syrah, and this is rather dominated by winemaking, which is why I've marked it down.