Te Mata Estate Woodthorpe Syrah 2010 was hand harvested from our Woodthorpe vineyard between 15 April & 5 May 2010. Fully-ripened syrah was combined with 4% viognier grapes, then destemmed & co-fermented. The resulting wine remained on skins for extended maceration before pressing. It was then run off to a mixture of new & seasoned French oak barrels for 12 months maturation, during which time it was regularly topped & racked. The wine received a traditional egg-white fining before being bottled in March 2011. Te Mata Estate Woodthorpe Syrah 2010 has a bright crimson colour with aromas of red cherries, raspberries & the pepper & jasmine floral notes. The palate features the same red berry fruits completed by baking spice flavours & integrated soft tannins. This wine will continue to develop in bottle for 2-5 years from harvest. It is a wonderful accompaniment to all red meats, savoury & lightly spiced dishes of Mediterranean cuisine, as well as soft ripened cheese.