Sant'Anselmo Syrah 2024

Syrah in Sicily? It might be more at home there than almost anywhere else in Italy.

Syrah loves heat, sun and poor soils — which describes Sicily perfectly. The island has quietly become one of Italy's best homes for this grape, and there's even an old legend linking Syrah's name to the city of Syracuse. Historians say it isn't true — but Sicilians tell it anyway.

Expect dark fruit — blackberry, black cherry — with black pepper and a warm, spicy Mediterranean character. Full-flavoured but smooth, with that Sicilian softness in the tannins.

If you drink New Zealand Syrah, this is a fascinating comparison — same grape, completely different sunshine. Pour it with barbecued meats, venison, or a peppery pasta.