Blank Canvas Element Syrah

The Blank Canvas Element Syrah is an extraordinary expression of Hawke’s Bay elegance — perfumed, peppery, and profoundly complex. Crafted by winemaker Matt Thomson and Master of Wine Sophie Parker-Thomson, this cool-climate Syrah perfectly balances fragrance, structure, and texture. Sourced from the renowned Escaroth Vineyard, it showcases Blank Canvas’s signature precision and artistry, capturing the soul of New Zealand Syrah in every glass.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Vibrant aromas of blackcurrant, raspberry, violet, and clove rise from the glass, intertwined with subtle spice and toasted oak. The palate reveals layers of dark berries, liquorice, and savoury pepper, underscored by iron-like minerality and fine-grain tannins. Elegant yet powerful, with lifted acidity and a lingering, stony finish — a Syrah of finesse and intrigue.

Key Details

• Winery: Blank Canvas – Escaroth Vineyard
• Varietal: Syrah
• Region: Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2018
• ABV: 13%
• Volume: 750ml
• Other: Vegan-Friendly, Sustainable Winegrowing

Craftsmanship & Story

In true cool-climate Syrah style, the Element Syrah emphasises fragrance, freshness, and texture. Pioneering co-fermentation with a small proportion of Grüner Veltliner skins lends lifted white-pepper spice and an inky purple hue, enhancing the wine’s aromatic precision. Whole-cluster fermentation and gentle handling create structure and depth, while 100% sustainable viticulture and minimalist winemaking allow the terroir of the Gimblett Gravels to shine through.

Special Features

Founded by Matt Thomson and Sophie Parker-Thomson MW, Blank Canvas approaches every vineyard as a unique opportunity for expression. Their “blank canvas” philosophy combines scientific rigour with intuitive artistry, producing wines of purity and poise. The Element Syrah, drawn from the stony Escaroth Vineyard, captures the essence of Hawke’s Bay Syrah — expressive, peppery, and elegantly defined.

Recognition & Accolades

Highly acclaimed by leading critics for its depth and finesse:

• 96/100 Points & 5 Stars – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2018 vintage)
• 96/100 Points & Wine of the Week – Cameron Douglas MS (2018 vintage)
• 18/20 Points – Julia Harding MW (2018 vintage)
• 17/20 Points – Richard Hemming MW (2018 vintage)
• Top NZ Syrah – Blind Panel Tasting, WANDS Magazine (2018 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Decanter Panel Tasting (2018 vintage)

These accolades affirm Blank Canvas’s position as one of New Zealand’s most exciting boutique producers.

Food Pairings

Elegant and peppery, New Zealand Syrah is superb alongside herb-crusted lamb, duck breast, or venison. Its lifted spice and savoury edge enhance chargrilled vegetables, mushroom risotto, or Mediterranean dishes with olives and rosemary. Try it with hard cheeses or dark chocolate for a refined, aromatic finish.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A sophisticated and small-batch Syrah that embodies precision, purity, and artistry — ideal for gifting, cellaring, or sharing on special occasions. The Element Syrah exemplifies modern New Zealand winemaking at its most expressive and elegant.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.