2023 Striato Magnum
Striato refers to the striations, or long narrow abrasions on rock, created by the movement of a glacier. It reminds us of the 600+ million year old geolociagl history of this land. Layers of cherry wood, dark rose and graphite show at first. The purple fruit and florals, distinctive of Polygon 1 (quartzite and schist) follow. Polygon 10 (limestone) provides a flick of graphite and balsamic on the nose, the hallmarks being in its fine velvet-like tannin.
Estate grown and made
Certified organic and biodynamic fruit
[VARIETIES] 100% Shiraz
[ALC] 13.5%
[PRODUCTION] 93 dozen
[CELLARING] 10+ years
The 2023 Striato Shiraz is distinct from the other Shirazes in the Alkina lineup in that it has meaty nuances, cocoa and licorice root and is altogether more purple and brown in color spectrum. There's mahogany and leaf litter, fresh grated nutmeg, dark chocolate and mint. Polygon 10 (limestone) makes up 60% of this blend, but Polygon 11 (quartzite schist), old-vine blocks 5 and 6 and Polygon 1 all feature in this wine. In terms of price point and positioning, this wine sits alongside the Old Quarter. I like this a lot; it is chewy and substantial, yet it remains pure and fine texturally. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.
94 Points, Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Deep ruby red colour. Blueberry, smoked meat and dried sage aromas. Medium weight with a supple glide of red and blue fruits encased by Asian spices and blue slate minerality. Great length, carried upon the back of firm ripe tannins that ensure it remains focused and drying to the finish
94 Points, Stuart Knox, The Real Review