2019 Syrah Réserve, Pfalz, Germany

Somewhat smoky, leathery and woody-spicy nose, ripe black berries with tobacco ash, some Mediterranean herbs, pepper and earthy and animal notes. Tart dark fruit with slightly fleshy notes, earthy and dried-vegetable tones, a hint of pepper and bitterish wood spice, present, somewhat sandy and drying tannins, certain power and persistence, salt in the background, a hint of bacon, hints of eucalyptus, dried-mushroomy nuances, good, albeit again somewhat tannic finish.

Best to drink: Bis 2026+. What our ratings mean