Syrah 2017 (Bessa Valley)

Enjoy now, or cellar for up to 20 years. Decanting is optional, for up to an hour before serving. Bessa Valley Winery is found at the foot of the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria, a region with an ancient wine-making tradition. The winery was founded in 2001, near the village of Ognianovo, and is owned by Count Stephan von Neipperg, an experienced oenologist with an impressive Bordeaux pedigree. Bessa Valley Winery cultivates mostly Bordeaux and Rhone Valley varietals, which thrive in the clay and limestone soils of the region. Sandwiched between the Rhodope Mountains to the south and high hills to the north, the valley forms a wind tunnel, moderating the continental climate. Bessa Valley Winery’s Syrah is a beautiful deep purple in the glass, exhibiting aromas of blueberry and blackberry jam, red cherry and undertones of toasty oak. It is made of 100% Syrah grapes, fermented in concrete tanks before being aged for 18 months in French oak barriques. It is medium-bodied, showing wonderful structure and complexity on the palate. Flavours of forest fruit, leather, red bell pepper and smoke are expressed magnificently. It is perfect for pairing with a spicy, tomato-rich pasta dish, mild cheese, or any variety of rich meat dishes.