26-Jul-2017
The Chapman family have championed the Syrah variety in the Waipara Valley, and have two blocks planted, with MS and ‘Stonecroft’ clones, 1.3 ha on the main level terrace and 0.3 ha on the 45° ‘Roasted Slope’ or ‘Bank’ Block’ on the north-facing terrace edge. 2016 was a particularly benevolent season for the variety, being very dry throughout winter, spring and autumn to harvest. Pete Chapman reports "this was some of the most delicious fruit I have tasted from our vineyard…very vibrant, concentrated fruit flavours with long acidity…also very firm, ripe skins, and no disease pressure at all. For 2016, the Chapmans experimented with co-fermentation with Viognier, and the final blend has 0.55% of the white variety. Here, I review the 2016 Syrah. It shows all the signs of very high quality, but is just a little shy in its youthful state. It is sure to blossom with considerable richness. www.terraceedge.co.nz
