Responsible Hedonist Rush The Stage Hawke’s Bay Red 2022 $35
What you have right here is a light, cherry, berry and spice-laced style of Syrah from Bridge Pa in Hawke’s Bay that’s been shepherded into the bottle by Chicago-born winemaker/engineer/sommelier and writer Diana Hawkins. It’s unfined and unfiltered to capture all its essential florals and fruit character. It also has a cute octopus on the label. And printed on the cork. Diana and the Responsible Hedonist kids love their little creatures and do regular beach cleanups on Waiheke Island, where they’re based. It leans toward the soft, gently juicy side of the street, with dried herbs and a hint of peppercorn character, so if you’re looking for a big, chewy, tannic style, then best you move along.
