Te Mata Bullnose Syrah 2018

The Te Mata Bullnose 2018 displays an almost Pinot Noir-like elegance and finesse, which is unusual for New World Syrah that tends to be more overtly powerful. Its perfumed intensity and spice-driven profile, combined with dried flowers and black pepper, creates a more European-style expression. This approach showcases how Hawke's Bay's terroir can produce Syrah with both power and restraint, demonstrating the evolution of New Zealand winemaking beyond fruit-forward styles.

With its exceptional structure and 97-point rating, this 2018 Bullnose has the backbone for extended cellaring of 10-15 years or more. The wine's tannin framework and natural acidity will allow it to develop greater complexity over time, with the spice and floral elements integrating beautifully. While drinking superbly now, it should reach its peak around 2025-2030, when the black pepper intensity softens and the licorice and dark fruit flavours become more harmonious.

The textured, savoury profile and medium body make this ideal for dishes that can match its spice-driven complexity without overwhelming its finesse. Think slow-braised lamb with herbs, duck confit with cherry gastrique, or aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano. The black pepper and licorice notes also complement game meats beautifully, while the wine's elegance means it won't overpower dishes with subtle spicing like Moroccan tagines.

While Te Mata's Coleraine Cabernet blend has been their flagship for decades, the Bullnose represents a newer direction showcasing single-varietal excellence. The Syrah demonstrates the estate's ability to craft wines of equal prestige from different varietals, with some critics suggesting it rivals or even surpasses Coleraine in complexity. This wine proves that Te Mata's winemaking philosophy of power through finesse translates brilliantly to Syrah, creating a distinctly New Zealand expression of this noble grape.

The 'crackles of tannin' suggests a lively, energetic tannin structure rather than heavy or overwhelming grip. This indicates the wine has excellent backbone for ageing while remaining approachable in its youth. These tannins provide textural interest and help carry the spice and pepper flavours across the palate, creating that 'drive' mentioned in professional reviews. It's a sign of quality winemaking where tannins enhance rather than dominate the wine's overall harmony.