The 2023 Las Pizarras Syrah stands out as one of Chile's most aromatically exotic and intense examples of Syrah, beginning with an alluring bouquet of black fruits, grilled meats, incense, sandalwood and purple flowers. The palate is exceptionally dense, concentrated and taut, culminating in a lifted, multidimensional finish that strikes a midpoint between rich, savory and refreshing. Similar to my experience with the 2022 iteration of this wine, the nose here continuously evolves, revealing an increasingly floral and perfumed complexity. It fermented with 15% whole clusters and matured for 16 months in 60% French barrels and 40% Austrian foudre.

Coastal Syrah in Chile is still awaiting its emergence on the world stage. The 2023 Syrah Las Pizarras comes from Quillota, just 12 kilometers from the Pacific. Grown on a northwest-facing slope, it achieves a dark varietal profile in this cool climate. It was fermented with 15% whole clusters, and aged for 12 months, half in barrels (40% new) and half in foudres. Deep purple in hue, the 2023 delivers compelling aromas of beetroot, earth and a hint of dried violets. Sleek and suave, the Syrah Laz Pizarras leaves a lingering finish of spice and a subtle nuance of fruit ripeness. A touch of stem character and the wine's signature chalky texture persist on the palate. This is a rich Syrah with a coastal identity.