2018 Le Macchiole, Scrio, Toscana IGT, Italy ($223)

100% Syrah

Le Macchiole is one of Tuscany's most acclaimed wineries, celebrated for its visionary approach to winemaking and its pioneering role in the Bolgheri region. Established in the 1980s, Le Macchiole focuses on producing limited quantities of single-varietal wines that reflect both tradition and innovation. The Scrio, crafted entirely from Syrah, is a shining example of the estate's excellence and one of Italy’s most iconic interpretations of the varietal.

Scrio is a 100% Syrah masterpiece—renowned for its depth and spice. Produced in limited quantities since 1994, it has become a benchmark in Bolgheri. The name "Scrio," meaning "pure" in Tuscan dialect, reflects its candid and whole character. With a drinking window extending to 2040, this wine promises longevity and evolution.

Critical Acclaim:

• 98 Points - Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: "An extraordinary expression of Syrah, showcasing layers of blackberry, plum, and black pepper, interwoven with hints of smoked meat, olive tapenade, and graphite. The 2018 Scrio is seamless and sophisticated, with exceptional depth and a finish that lingers endlessly."

• 97 Points - James Suckling: "Powerful yet elegant, with vibrant aromas of dark fruits, violets, and sweet spices. The palate reveals a harmonious balance of ripe fruit, fresh acidity, and velvety tannins, leading to a beautifully polished finish."

• 96 Points - Vinous: "A benchmark for Italian Syrah, offering intense flavors of blueberry, cocoa, and anise. The wine’s structure and finesse are remarkable, with a mineral-driven finish that underscores its pedigree."

• 96 Points - Decanter: "A stunningly pure expression of Syrah, Scrio balances boldness with elegance. Layers of dark fruit, spice, and savory notes unfold into a long, complex finish that speaks to its Tuscan roots and world-class quality."

2018 SAMsARA, Syrah, Zotovich Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills, California ($53)

100% Syrah

This boutique winery, founded in 2002, is renowned for its commitment to small-lot, single-vineyard wines that highlight the diversity and character of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, located just north of Santa Barbara. The Zotovich Vineyard, located in the heart of this appellation, is known for its diatomaceous earth and sandy loam soils, which contribute to the wine's mineral-driven character and fruit with incredible depth and purity. Under the meticulous stewardship of SAMsARA’s team, this single-vineyard Syrah showcases the very best of the Sta. Rita Hills region. This polished Syrah exemplifies the distinct terroir of Sta. Rita Hills, making it a compelling addition to this exclusive holiday collection.

The wine opens with inviting aromas of wild blueberries, blackberries, and violets, layered with savory hints of black pepper, smoked meat, rosemary, clove, and incense. On the palate, it is refined and well-structured, with a silky texture, bright acidity, and a persistent finish that highlights dark fruit and spice. While approachable now with 90 minutes of decanting. With further aging in the bottle, this Syrah will continue to gain nuance over the next 10–15 years.

Critical Acclaim:

• 94 Points - Wine Enthusiast: "An impeccably crafted Syrah that captures the essence of the Sta. Rita Hills. Aromas of wild blueberries, violets, and smoked meat are complemented by layers of black pepper and rosemary. The bright acidity and fine tannins lead to a long, spice-inflected finish."

2018 L'Aventure, Optimus, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, California ($60)

56% Syrah, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot

This dynamic Syrah-blend reflects the adventurous spirit of L'Aventure, an estate founded in 1998 by French winemaker Stephan Asseo. After gaining decades of experience crafting Bordeaux-style wines at his family estates in Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, Asseo sought a new frontier with greater freedom in viticulture and winemaking. His search led him to Paso Robles, where the diverse terroir and dramatic diurnal temperature swings of the Willow Creek District. The estate, located on the west side of Paso Robles, features rolling hills and complex soils with limestone, which lends freshness and minerality to the wines. The 2018 Optimus, marking the 20th vintage of this flagship wine and a unique blue label for this vintage, embodies the estate’s philosophy of crafting wines that are full-bodied yet balanced, with both richness and elegance.

The wine opens with enticing aromas of sage, wild raspberry, and dark chocolate, interwoven with notes of cassis, menthol, and a whisper of smoked oak. The Syrah contributes exotic spice and lush fruit, while the Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure, and the Petit Verdot adds depth and refinement. The palate is rich yet precise, with fine-grained tannins and a persistent finish that balances power with freshness. This approachable yet age-worthy wine can be enjoyed now with decanting and will continue to evolve beautifully through 2036.

Critical Acclaim:

• 94 Points - Decanter: "A gorgeous expression of Paso Robles, combining richness and precision. Aromas of wild raspberry, cassis, and sage lead to a structured yet refined palate, with notes of dark chocolate, menthol, and a whisper of smoked oak. Fine tannins and vibrant freshness make for a wine of exceptional balance and depth."

PLEASE NOTE

• Purchasers must be 21 years of age or older and be present with an ID upon delivery.

• Price includes 5.50% Maine State sales tax and Maine’s fifteen-cents redemption deposit per bottle.

• If your billing address is different from your delivery address, please include your delivery address in the comments section at checkout.

• *Delivery is by Wine Wise—not third-party carriers. Our delivery area is Cape Elizabeth, Cumberland Foreside, Falmouth, Old Orchard Beach, Portland, Saco, Scarborough, South Portland, and Westbrook. We have a larger delivery area for Wine Club deliveries.