2023 Ouled Thaleb - Syrah Syrocco Zenata (750ml)

Syrocco is a striking collaboration between Domaine des Ouled Thaleb, Morocco's oldest active winery, and the late Northern Rhône legend Alain Graillot of Crozes-Hermitage. The idea was born while Graillot was vacationing in Morocco and noticed how closely the terroir mirrored his own vineyards back home. The domaine itself dates to 1923, when the first vines were planted just outside Casablanca, making it Morocco's oldest operating winery.

The grapes come from the Atlantic-influenced hills of the Zenata region, in the lee of the Middle Atlas Mountains, where fresh ocean breezes and an elevation around 500 meters help keep the climate relatively cool despite the North African sun. The old-vine Syrah, averaging around 25 years of age, is farmed meticulously with goblet pruning, hand weeding, and hand ploughing, without herbicides or fungicides. The wine is fermented in concrete vats and aged in a combination of tanks and oak barrels, preserving structure while allowing nuanced development.

In the glass it's deep black-ruby, opening with a compelling mix of ripe purple-black fruit and dried red cherry, layered with sandalwood, herbs, and warm spice. The palate is medium to full-bodied, structured yet supple, finishing dry and long with the savory character of classic Mediterranean Syrah.

Pair with grilled meats, braised lamb, or spiced North African dishes.