In March, the Toronto Vintners Club (TVC) hosted an evening dedicated to the exploration of Syrah wines. TVC members and guests gathered to indulge in a sensory journey through a diverse selection of vintages, both Old and New World, showcasing the rich tapestry of flavors and terroirs associated with this noble grape varietal.
The event kicked off with the delightful 2020 Domain Quelys Chardonnay—a splendid welcome wine treat. With an expressive nose boasting notes of lemon zest, green apple, and hints of crème brûlée, this Chardonnay set the stage for an evening. On the palate, its fresh acidity seamlessly transitions to a creamy mouthfeel, adding depth to its lean style—a true testament to the artistry of winemaking.
Our guest speaker Jay Whiteley, an esteemed independent sommelier and wine educator, shared insights into the world of Syrah, guiding guests through a tasting journey featuring nine wines that exemplified the diverse terroirs and winemaking techniques employed by producers worldwide. Here is a link to Jay's presentation: https://www.jaywhiteley.com/all-the-rest/que-sera-sera
Accompanying the wines were delicious appetizers carefully curated to enhance the tasting experience, allowing guests to indulge their palates. Throughout the evening, TVC guests had the opportunity to sample each wine and rank them based on personal preference.
At the end of the event, the wines were unveiled, revealing the 2017 Henschke Mount Edelstone Vineyard, Eden Valley, as the group's favorite. Medium garnet with crimson hues, this wine exuded intense aromas of briary black currant, blackberry, and blueberry, intertwined with notes of sage, bay leaf, and black pepper. On the palate, it offered a rich and complex tapestry of flavors, carried by velvety tannins to an almost endless finish—a truly beautiful wine that left a lasting impression.
Here is how the group and our guest speaker scored the wines:
See you next month at 2013 Barolo vs Barbaresco!