Matured 100% in French oak for 18 months, the 2006 Deerstalkers Syrah is an absolute delight with a well-defined nose of white pepper, a slight tinny element that soon dissipates in the glass and revealing a more opulent bouquet than presupposed. The palate displays high extraction but the fruit remains very pure with notes of cherry, blueberry, a touch of spice and a floral, violet-tinged succulent finish. Curiously it tasted lighter when tasted single blind but achieved an identical score. Sacred Hill was founded in Hawkes Bay in the mid-80’s by David and Mark Mason, with David taking the lead role as managing director with winemaker Tony Bish (ex Corban’s and Rippon amongst others) returning to the fold in 1994. They produce four ranges of wine aimed at different price points, though I concentrated on their premium releases under the “Special Selection” banner plus a choice of Reserve wines. Some of their wines I felt were a little overdone, but the top wines deserve their plaudits.Importer: Diageo, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 299-2600