Tua Rita Syrah Per Sempre 2016

Tua Rita's 2016 Syrah Per Sempre is fabulous. Crème de cassis, lavender, licorice, plum and blueberry jam are all beautifully delineated. Savory, powerful and also structured, the 2016 has plenty of intensity, but it also is not as dense or obvious as has been the case in the recent past. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2016 for at least a few years.

This is an absolutely gorgeous expression, very full and generous. The 2016 Syrah Per Sempre spent a little less time in oak compared to other vintages, just 16 months, and the results are excellent. This area's Syrah always does best in hot years, such as 2009 and 2007, and this vintage is reminiscent of the latter. There is lovely black fruit, surrounded by milled black pepper and hints of charcuterie. The key to hot-vintage Syrah is to keep the extraction low: This wine saw a 20-day maceration period, but still, the Syrah Per Sempre is thick and highly concentrated, and the 15% alcohol content is unmistakable. This would be a perfect accompaniment to a filet mignon and potatoes au gratin. This Syrah is a true standout.

The first vintage of this 100% Syrah was in 2001. Stefano Frascolla tells the touching story of how, whenever his father-in-law was asked which was his favourite wine, he would say 'Syrah per sempre' - literally 'Syrah forever', but colloquially 'Syrah of course'. This is sweetly perfumed with juicy, vibrant acidity, lots of ripe, dark fruit, rich oak and concentrated liquorice flavours. A well rounded wine with a strong personality. Drinking Window 2018 - 2028

An opulent style, offering cherry, plum, tobacco and spice flavors. Broad and dense, featuring ample yet well-integrated tannins for support. The finish stays fresh and long, with toasted spice, mineral and tobacco notes. Syrah. Best from 2020 through 2028. 300 cases made.