Taste Test of the Week: Cline Cellars Syrah 2010

Syrah or Shiraz as it is also called, is with good reason a favorite among those who love a good piece of meat, where the wine should match the meat's juiciness and power.

In Australia, the grape is often called Shiraz, but is identical to the French Syrah. It is a robust grape that can tolerate a little bit of everything and, importantly, it likes a warm climate. Syrah wines are often quite powerful with a high alcohol content and an almost opaque dark, dark red color. This is also the reason why some people avoid Syrah wines, as it can simply be too much of a good thing.

This week's taste test, Cline Cellars Syrah from 2010, is an exception, however, while it has the typical characteristics of Syrah, it is a quite pleasant acquaintance that does not leave you dizzy and with a parched palate, due to too high alcohol or dominant tannins.

Is 2010 already 5 years ago? Time flies, but when it comes to good wine, it doesn't matter. Cline Cellars Syrah has reached that magical point where everything just works.

The aroma is pleasant and almost classic Syrah with nuances of black pepper and dark berries. The taste has both fruit and spices, but without the typical heavy alcohol that some Syrah wines suffer from. Soft tannins and a very charming aftertaste with notes of blackberry and blueberry complete the experience.

At a price that is currently below the magical 100 kroner note, Cline Cellars Syrah is the obvious wine the next time you want a good steak.

Right now Cline Cellars Syrah 2010 is on sale for DKK 99,- you can find it at this link.