2017 Alain Graillot Syrocco Syrah

The story has it that Alain was cycling in Morocco (hence the tandem bike and palm tree on the label) when he stopped off at Domaine des Ouled Thaleb, 40 km inland from the Atlantic Ocean. A conversation with the Domaine's then oenologist, Jacques Poulaine, and a close look at sites in Rommani and Benslimane convinced Graillot of the potential for producing highly elegant Syrah. The relatively cool climate and altitude here-and the mix of red and black clay over a base of limestone and ancient ocean bed remnants-provide the right mix of conditions for scented, juicy, layered Syrah that Alain Graillot hopes will showcase the surprising potential of Morocco.
Impenetrable black as night core with a bright dark red hue. Elevated aromas of black cherries intermingle with liquorice, fresh herbs, a subtle meatiness, scorched earth, black olive and blackpepper. Rich black cherry and liquorice flavours have a dense chewy feel underpinned by dried meats, scorched earth, spicy dried herbs and pepper. A robust tannin structure imparts some grip to the back palate. Quite savoury and elegant in spite of the black fruits finishing medium to long. Meaty and chewy, this is quite Northern Rhone like.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%