Linden Estate Reserve Hawke’s Bay Syrah 2014 $48 ★★★★
This Esk Valley producer is on its way to completing a radical turnaround of fortunes, from being run into virtual non-existence, it’s been rescued and revitalised by sparkie-turned-winemaker Trevor Shepherd, who clearly has a knack for creating quality syrah. Intensely spicy and showing plum, dark berries, cocoa and elegant, elongated tannins and expert handling., It’s a wine with balance and presence.
Sip with: spice rubbed lamb rumps.
