Bay winery's syrah is real world beater

Hawke's Bay's Elephant Hill vineyard's 2009 Syrah was one of just 25 wines out of 12,254 from around the world to bag an International Trophy at the Decanter World Wine Awards staged in London.

The Te Awanga-based winery took the trophy in the best red Rhone varietal over £10 ($19) category.

Elephant Hill was one of three Kiwi wineries to taste success at the recent show and the only Bay-based vineyard.

Vavasour Sauvignon Blanc 2010 from Marlborough and Nelson-based Waimea Estate's Sauvignon Blanc also picked up trophies.

As one of the wine industry's most coveted international shows, all the wines were tasted by a judging panel of 214 expert judges.

"Receiving this trophy is an amazing achievement for our team and it's great to see our wine and other great New Zealand wines taking their rightful place on the world stage," Elephant Hill winemaker Steve Skinner said.

Decanter World Wine Awards chairman Steven Spurrier said there was surprise voiced by some that a Hawke's Bay syrah had taken the award - "proving that this f?d part of the North Island can turn its hand to anything".

Described as soft, plump and weighty with a juicy but structured palate, the Elephant Hill 2009 Estate Syrah has had an impressive awards season.

Three trophy wins at the recent Sydney International Wine Competition and a regional and now an international trophy at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2011.

Unfortunately, for those wanting to discover for themselves what the judges found, the 2009 has now sold out - although the 2010 Syrah is available for purchase from the cellar door.