La Petite Mort Syrah 2011

Although his mentor Glen Robert of Bent Road Winery describes Thomas New as a "stray", Thomas is far from a lost soul. After working as a botanist and environmental consultant, his life journey took the turn where he found his mojo and love of the vine working at Bent Road.

There's plenty to intrigue you about Thomas. He's quietly spoken, awfully intelligent, hates social media, and oozes plenty of creativity.

New's hands-on approach to his winemaking is clearly evident here with the wax seal and fining with fresh egg whites. Hand made wine deluxe.

Made with organic fruit, a typical cool climate Syrah is presented here. Cherries, earth, and loads of white pepper provide a lovely bouquet.

The palate delivers bright coloured, medium bodied fruit. The flavour profile builds with the cherries and pepper at the fore, and it finishes nicely with tannins that hang forever. There is a subtle minerality I detect from the granite soils which adds to the character. An all round enjoyable drop.

Who: La Petite Mort http://lapetitemortwine.com/
What: Shiraz
Where: Granite Belt
When: 2011
How: $30

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