2018, The XO Reserve Syrah

Appearance: The XO Reserve Syrah presents a deep, opaque purple color, typical of a high-quality Syrah. The intense depth of color indicates a rich, concentrated wine, with a bright rim showing its youth and vitality.

Aroma: The aromatic profile of this wine is complex and enticing, with powerful notes of blackberry and dark cherry at the forefront, complemented by hints of violet and black pepper. Subtle undertones of smoked meat and licorice add depth, while a light touch of oak brings vanilla and toasted cedar nuances.

Palate: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and muscular, yet maintains a balance with its finely knit tannins and crisp acidity. It unfolds layers of dark fruit flavors, intermixed with spice, espresso, and a minerally earthiness that leads to a robust and lingering finish.

Cellaring Potential: This Syrah has excellent potential for aging, with its strong structure and complexity suggesting it will continue to develop and mature gracefully in the bottle over the next 8 to 12 years.

Serving Temperature: Serve at 16-18°C (61-64°F) to best appreciate its rich texture and layered flavors.

Food Pairings: The XO Reserve Syrah is well-suited to pair with rich, flavorful dishes such as braised beef short ribs, lamb shank, or grilled meats with herb rubs. It also complements hard cheeses and dishes with earthy components like mushrooms or truffles.