The 2023 Man O’ War Dreadnought Syrah is a powerful yet precise Syrah from steep hillside vineyards on the eastern reaches of Waiheke Island, New Zealand. The nose combines dark cherry, mulberry and blood plum with black olive, cracked pepper, wild herbs and smoky, ferrous mineral notes, capturing the distinctive maritime character of Waiheke Syrah.
On the palate, it is concentrated and savoury with dark fruit, bright acidity and fine, graphite-like tannins. Hand-harvested fruit was predominantly destemmed with selected whole-bunch components, naturally fermented in open-top vessels and matured for 18 months in seasoned and new French oak before resting for a further three months in tank. The finish is long, smoky and subtly saline.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for Syrah drinkers who enjoy structured, savoury reds with dark fruit, peppery spice and distinctive mineral complexity. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar for further development. Ideal with roast lamb, grilled beef, slow-cooked meats, game, mushroom dishes or aged cheeses.
