Callia Alta Syrah 2005
Bodega
Range
Wine
Vintage
Origin
Price
Appearance
Clear ruby with violet tones.
Nose
Plums, with spicy oak notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and a slightly mineral character of damp river stones.
Palate
Light-ish body, but plenty of fruit: ripe plums, boysenberries, and a red apple sweetness. Well balanced with moderate acidity and fine tannins. Pleasant lingering finish with a subtle spiciness and biscuity savoury notes adding a layer of interest to the warming aftertaste of the 14.0% alcohol.
Overall
Callia, in San Juan, is part of the Bodegas Salentein group, but the northern operation is arguably outshining the parent company at every turn. This is a tasty, elegant and excellently balanced wine at an incredible price - proving once again that Argentine syrahs are capable of being every bit as good as their malbecs. Fruit, balance, complexity from nose to lingering finish - one to savour with the meal of your choice, but don't wait for dinner to give you an excuse to open a bottle - this is equally outstanding on its own.
****
(August 06)