Kathryn Kennedy Winery

Marty Mathis is one of those winemakers who doesn’t fancy getting up in front of people and talking about his wines. He’ll graciously do a phone interview and occasionally shows up to work wine events, but he’s more comfortable pruning and working in the cellar. He prefers to let the wine do the talking, and takes little credit for the results. He just knows when something is good, and leaves it at that.

Take this Syrah: a beautiful deep red wine with a carnelian hue, it looks gorgeous in the glass, with an air of nobility. The distinctive and appealing aromas of white, pink and black Tellicherry peppercorns, combined with the pleasant whiff of smoked ham, promises a Syrah with true character. This stylish, wonderful wine has a beautiful texture, filled with seductive dark coffee liqueur, lush plum, fine tanned leather, smokey bacon and picholine olives. On the finish, greek olives and basil, combine with the lovely peppercorn accents to make this wine a delight with complex dishes. Its approachability and versatility is evident right from the first sip.

We enjoyed it with roasted chicken coated with Fumé de Sel, a sea salt smoked with Chardonnay barrels: this gave the bird a delightful smoked character, which embraced the wines natural smokiness. It was equally adept at roasted lamb with garlic and rosemary, and would be just the ticket with lamb moussaka – does anyone make that any more?

Reviewed June 30, 2006 by Laura Ness.