Syrah du Monde
The international Syrah du Monde wine competition took place for the eighth time at Château Ampuis (F). The jury, consisting of renowned wine connoisseurs, awarded 136 medals, 42 of which were gold.
The only gold award for Switzerland went to Diego Mathier from the Adrian Mathier winery in Salgesch, Valais. The Swiss winemaker of 2007 and 2011 was visibly proud: “This is an incredible honor for our family winery.” The grapes for this Syrah grow on humus-rich soils in Conthey and Sierre. The grapes are fermented in Vinimatics so that the temperature can be optimally controlled. It is then matured in barriques for 12 to 16 months. In order to avoid a dominant wood note, partly new barrels and partly barrels in their second year of use are used. This Syrah produces a powerful, very colorful wine. Over the years, it develops spicy notes of violets and reseda, which turn into aromas of pepper and game over time. At the peak of its maturity, it develops a harmonious taste that borders on complete perfection. It is a culinary accompaniment to lamb and beef, game and cheese.
Just recently, the Folissimo and the Merlot Nadia Mathier 2012 won a gold medal at the Mondial du Merlot 2014. “Now my wife and I are already competing with each other through our wines,” says Diego Mathier with a grin, adding, “but I have long been convinced that the future of our winery will undeniably be female with regard to our five daughters. And I’m still a little ahead of the game with my Syrah as the only gold-plated Swiss Syrah…”. The Merlo grapes grow on sunny limestone and slate slopes in Salgesch and Sion. These grapes are also fermented in Vinimatics and matured in barriques for 12 months. This Merlot is dark in color with violet reflections. It owes its impressive, concentrated bouquet, which is characterized by aromas of pure fruit, spices and elderberry, to the limited harvest. A hint of oak bark is reminiscent of the extended ageing in barriques without detracting from the characteristics of the variety. The tannins are already well integrated and velvety on the palate. The finish is persistent and rounded. It is an excellent accompaniment to beef and lamb as well as game and cheese.
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