2023 Fetherston Sakura Syrah Nebbiolo, Pyrenees

The Fetherston Sakura Syrah Nebbiolo from the Pyrenees region is a captivating and unique blend crafted by winemakers Chris Lawrence and Cam Marshall. Known for their innovative approach and dedication to small-batch, terroir-focused wines, Fetherston’s team has combined Syrah and Nebbiolo in this wine to bring out the best of each variety. The cool-climate Pyrenees region, with its high elevation and mineral-rich soils, allows both grapes to thrive, resulting in a wine with both depth and finesse.

On the nose, Sakura offers a bouquet of dark cherry, blackberry, and plum from the Syrah, intertwined with delicate rose petals, red cherry, and a hint of tar from the Nebbiolo. The palate is medium-bodied and complex, with the Syrah providing soft, juicy fruit and fine tannins, while the Nebbiolo adds structure, vibrant acidity, and a touch of earthy spice. The combination is refreshing and lively, with a long, polished finish that showcases the wine’s unique character and elegance.

This blend pairs wonderfully with a range of foods, from charcuterie and grilled meats to mushroom dishes and aged cheeses. With its balanced acidity and complexity, the Sakura Syrah Nebbiolo is enjoyable now but promises even greater depth with a bit of cellaring.

60% syrah, 40% nebbiolo, all sourced from the Malakoff Estate vineyard in Pyrenees.

Syrah was handpicked on April 12, five days cold soak, pressed off skins to neutral French barriques and puncheons. Nebbiolo was handpicked on May 10, destemmed and fermented in large format oak. Pressed off skins after 19 days to neutral barriques. Blended and bottled in December 2023.

A characterful, charismatic wine loaded with perfumes of black cherry, leather, allspice and black fruits. There's silky sweetness from the syrah and earthy savouriness from the nebbiolo, all held together by fine, web-like tannins and fresh natural acidity.