Korlat Syrah 2019 (Badel 1862)

Cellar for up to 5 years. Decant 1 hour prior to drinking The Korlat Syrah has a deep, dark ruby color, and is a well-structured example of a new-world meets old-world wine. Aromas of blackberry jam, raisins, and baking spices are followed aby soft and sweet flavors of mixed berry jam, tobacco, and spice, with a chocolate tinge on the mellow finish. This is a balanced, easy drinking wine, with velvety tannins and a slow, mouthcoating feel and finish. This rich Syrah would be best paired with stronger game dishes such as venison or duck stew, roast beef, or cured meats and stronger soft cheeses. It would also drink well next to a fresh berry dessert. Known since its founding in 1956 as a top-quality rose producer and producer of grape distillate for brandy production, the Benkovac Winery began planting Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other French varietals in 2005 on the hot, dry hills of Korlat nearby. They now have 103 hectares of land planted with over 500,000 vines. The stony, loose soils force the struggling vines to dig their roots deep into the ground to access the limited amounts of water, contributing to the aromatic intensity and deeply rich flavors of this wine. A careful oak regimen is also used to soften the tannins and allow this wine to be drunk sooner.