The 2019 Blank Canvas Element Vineyard Syrah is a single-vineyard wine from the famed Gimblett Gravels winegrowing district in Hawke’s Bay. Crafted by Matt Thomson and Sophie Parker-Thomson MW, it comes from the low-yielding Element Vineyard, where the region’s free-draining gravel soils produce Syrah of exceptional concentration and finesse. Inspired by the great wines of the Northern Rhône, the wine combines power and structure with elegance and aromatic complexity.
The nose reveals blackberry, blueberry and plum layered with violet, cracked pepper, olive tapenade and subtle smoky spice. The palate is richly textured yet beautifully poised, with vibrant dark fruit, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity driving a long, savoury finish. Bob Campbell MW awarded the wine 96 points, while Cameron Douglas MS scored it 95 points, praising its purity, complexity and impressive ageing potential. The wine captures the distinctive spice and elegance that have made Gimblett Gravels one of the Southern Hemisphere’s premier Syrah regions.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A serious cool-climate Syrah that beautifully balances Northern Rhône character with New Zealand precision and purity. Complex, perfumed and highly age-worthy, it pairs superbly with roast lamb, venison, duck, grilled beef and mushroom dishes. Drinking beautifully with a decant, but it has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully through 2035–2040.
