2013 Jamsheed La Syrah Harem

The Harem range simply put is the second label for Jamsheed. It is a concept driven right back to the story of King Jamsheed and the discovery of wine through accidental trial and error. Harem is Gary’s way to experiment a bit with vineyards for future single vineyard programs. When Dr. Jamie Goode opines that "The less expensive Harem series deliver pure vinous pleasure", it's Le Syrah's kind of charm to which he is referring. That said, 2013 is the most structured vintage to date; really jubey, spicy and tightly wound with plenty of powdery, protein-loving grip on the finish. It comes alive with food. Really far too serious for the commercial price tag. But don't tell Gary! The 2013 is a blend of Upper Goulburn (80%) and Yarra Valley (20%) Syrah, fermented incorporating 80% whole bunches and indigenous yeasts, aged in new and older 500L puncheons and bottled unfined and unfiltered 8 months after picking. Bright purple. Highly fragrant scents of black and blue fruits, olive paste and smoky Indian spices. Shows textbook syrah character, with appealing sweetness, smokiness and spiciness to its cassis, cherry compote and licorice pastille flavors. The persistent, subtly tannic finish repeats the smoky note and shows very good focus.