($25, Vineyard Brands): While Marlborough region is known for Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago and Martinborough areas for Pinot Noir, George Fistonich, managing director of Villa Maria, says that Hawkes Bay, located on the North Island, is ‘good for everything’ because of its multitude of microclimates.  Judging by this Syrah, it is certainly a superb place for that grape.  A potpourri of minerals, earthiness, nuances of chocolate and white pepper, it has an incredible texture and length.  This refined Syrah suggests that New Zealand can excel with that variety. 93 Michael Apstein Feb 19, 2008