Te Awanga Estate, Hawke’s Bay (New Zealand) Syrah 2018

 Yes, New Zealand makes distinctive Sauvignon Blanc.  As those late-night television ads proclaim, “but wait, there’s more.”  And indeed, New Zealand produces more than Sauvignon Blanc, including Syrah, as exemplified by this one.  Hawke’s Bay lies on the east coast of the north island and is well suited for reds, such as Syrah and the Bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.  Te Awanga Estate has managed to marry robust black pepper-scented notes with vibrant dark fruity ones in their 2018 Syrah.  This northern Rhône look-alike has mild tannins and bright enlivening acidity that allow you to enjoy it now with grilled beef.