2009 Equinoxe Syrah 375ml

WINEMAKER'S NOTES

Équinoxe: equal day, equal night. Equal old world, equal new world. In contrast with 2008, the 2009 vintage was hot from the get go and the sun shone until the early frost in the second week of October. The resulting wines show riper fruit, rounded acidity, slightly higher alcohol levels and other characteristics associated with a warm vintage. In 2009 the Équinoxe Syrah perfectly and effortlessly combines elements of both old world and new world. The heat of the desert es us lushness, exuberance and comfort; the cool desert nights give us balanced natural acidity and elegance.

FOOD PAIRINGS

Centuries ago the black pepper spice trade launched voyages, wars and epic tales. A white and black pepper lamb or veal stew will find and accentuate the peppery notes in the wine to create a dramatic celebration of pepper. Cassoulet is another classic and seamless pairing.

ACCOLADES

Best Syrah in the World - Judgement of Montreal

93 Points - "Wow. First class Syrah here, a big step up from the Le Vieux Pin's already very good "regular" Syrah. This has incredibly dense and complex flavours spanning the spectrum from smoke and tar to ripe but not jammy fruit, garrigue, liquorice, faded roses and violets, and top notch dark chocolate. The palate is really well balanced and poised, with terrific flavour intensity without excessive extraction, just well-managed tannins and juicy acidity, leading into a long, long finish. Absolutely terrific and highly inviting now, but likely best 2014-2020." - John Szabo, Master Sommelier

93 Points - "This is terrific! One of those rich, molten Syrahs that slips and slides its away from start to finish. The nose is a bit reserved but still shows lovely pepper, licorice/caraway, black olive/berry fruit and B.C. sage. The length is excellent. This wine is exquisite! Best 2014 to well beyond 2020." - David Lawrason

95 Points - "This is a ripe red made from grapes grown around 1.5 tons an acre. It starts with an intriguing aroma of red liquorice, pepper and raw steak. On palate, there are generous flavours of plums, black cherries and red liquorice. The texture is full, rich and elegant." - John Schreiner