Domaine Naturaliste Rachis Syrah 2018

Winemaking and Drinking

The 2018 vintage of Rachis Syrah is a testament to Bruce Dukes' winemaking philosophy, which emphasizes minimal intervention and a deep respect for the vineyard's natural environment. The Syrah grapes for this wine were hand harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring the highest quality fruit. The wine was fermented in small batches with indigenous yeasts, enhancing the expression of the vineyard's unique terroir.

The Vineyard

The vineyard's unique terroir plays a pivotal role in shaping the profile of the Domaine Naturaliste Rachis Syrah 2018. The Margaret River region is celebrated for its Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, providing ideal conditions for grape growing. The vineyard's gravelly loam soils over a clay subsoil ensure excellent drainage while retaining essential moisture, promoting balanced vine growth. This meticulous balance of climate and soil results in grapes with concentrated flavors and refined acidity.

Tasting Notes

The Domaine Naturaliste Rachis Syrah 2018 is a wine of remarkable depth and complexity. In the glass, it presents a deep, garnet hue with violet reflections, hinting at its vibrant character. The nose is an enticing bouquet of dark berries, black cherries, and plum, intertwined with notes of cracked black pepper, violets, and a subtle hint of smoked meat. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and richly textured, offering layers of blackberry, blueberry, and cassis, complemented by savory undertones of olive tapenade and roasted herbs. The mid-palate reveals a fine minerality and a touch of dark chocolate, adding to the wine's complexity. The tannins are ripe and velvety, providing structure and a long, elegant finish marked by a persistent spiciness and a touch of earthiness.

Awards and Accolades

The Domaine Naturaliste Rachis Syrah 2018 has garnered significant acclaim in the wine industry, reflecting its outstanding quality and the meticulous craftsmanship behind its production. Some of the notable accolades include:

• Gold Medal at the 2019 Margaret River Wine Show, recognizing the wine's exceptional balance and complexity.
• 94 points from James Halliday's Wine Companion, praising its vibrant fruit profile and finely integrated tannins.
• 95 points from Wine Enthusiast, highlighting its harmonious blend of fruit and savory elements and its impressive aging potential.

Conclusion

Domaine Naturaliste Rachis Syrah 2018 is more than just a bottle of wine; it is an embodiment of the Margaret River terroir and Bruce Dukes' unwavering commitment to excellence. Each sip offers a journey through the vineyard's unique landscape, revealing the intricate interplay of flavors and textures that define this extraordinary Syrah. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future appreciation, this wine promises to deliver an unforgettable experience, earning its place among the finest Syrahs in the world.