2006 Lailey Vineyard Syrah VQA Niagara River

The 2006 growing season started slowly with a cool damp spring. Bud break was later than normal. The weather warmed in mid May and remained hot through the summer. The heat coupled with timely rains made 2006 a very good growing season. September started off very warm and there were hopes of an early harvest, but the tail end of a hurricane brought rain in mid September which continued on and off through to October. However because of the great summer the grapes were mature and the flavours are exceptional.

winemaker's tasting note
Rich, dark fruits on the nose with a hint of black pepper. The palate is medium to full bodied with blackberries, spice and a round tannic structure that will match beautifully with lamb and game meats.

review
This is a rather snazzy, very spicy syrah. Fairly deep ruby colour. Very lifted, peppery, charcoal, caper/dill, chocolate, lead pencil nose with some blackcurrant fruit (wouldn’t mind a touch more). It’s mid-weight, slender, grippy and dry. Very focused, spicy, peppery, toasty finish, with excellent length. Needs a few months of calming perhaps. Best 2008 to 2012. David Lawrason. www.winerytohome.com November 2007