CRAMA FERDI | Mister S. – Editie Limitata | 2021
syrah

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Nestled in the heart of Romania’s wine producing region, the famous Dealu Mare, Crama Ferdi is a boutique winery, founded in 2009 by Fernando Mihăilescu in Tohani. The winery embodies passion for winemaking by enhancing quality over quantity, thus mastering the art of traditional viticulture while embracing innovative winemaking techniques. Crama Ferdi represents microvinification at its finest: each wine is a piece of art.
Today we are are going to review a quite intriguing, single varietal syrah wine from the famous Dealu Mare region of Romania – Mister S. – Editie Limitata 2021 by Crama Ferdi. In a world where bolder is better, syrah is the perfect choice, as it is darker and spicier than cabernet sauvignon and contains a high amounts of health-invigorating antioxidants. Syrah, also known as Shiraz, can be vinified in two major styles: old-world style and new-world style. The old-world syrah wines tend to have more acidity and displays earthy-herbaceous aromas on the nose, while the new-world shiraz wines are usually dusty and fruit-forward, with lots of spice and nuanced hints of smoke.

Mister S. embodies the winery’s philosophy: a limited edition wine (only 1150 bottles have been produced) crafted with precision and care – a classic example of modern microvinification. Each bottle tells the story of its region, rich in cultural heritage and a winemaking legacy that dates back for many centuries. The wine has been aged for 15 months in small oak barriques, with some extra months of bottle ageing before it was deemed ready for market release.

Located in a hilly landscape, the Dealu Mare region’s varied altitudes and endless slopes foster excellent drainage and aeration necessary for vine health. The region benefits from a combination of geographical advantages that define its unique terroir. Its close proximity of the Carpathian Mountains moderates temperature extremes, allowing for a longer growing season. Its terroir is characterized by limestone-rich soils and a favorable microclimate defined by warm sunny days and cool nights. The elevation aids in preserving natural acidity while allowing the grapes to ripen fully. These natural elements combine to create wines that allows for the full expression of each grape variety with vibrant and complex aromas.
© Map credits: crameromania.ro

color: deep & opaque ruby color
clarity: hazy ruby shades at the rim

In the glass, this wine exhibits a vibrant, ruby-red color, with hazy ruby hues towards the rim of the glass. The wine’s clarity and depth hint at its quality, while the delicate legs forming on the inside of the glass confess a pleasing viscosity that suggests high alcohol content.

intensity: rich & oaky
fruit character: ripe

On the nose, Mister S. delivers a symphony of aromas. The initial wave reveals bright notes of ripe black cherries and dark plums, intertwined with subtle hints of vanilla and a touch of oak. As it opens up, more complex layers emerge, showcasing undertones of earthiness, dried herbs, and an appealing spiciness.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: medium+ | balance: good
finish: medium | aftertaste: crisp

On the palate, the wine feels medium-bodied with well-integrated tannins that provide structure without overwhelming the harmony between rich fruit and exuberant acidity. Flavors of dark berries, including blackcurrant and mulberry, dance harmoniously with hints of dark chocolate and spice, creating a sublime interplay of flavours. An overwhelming touch of alcoholic warmth add structure, leading to a clean and refreshing finish.

maturity: developing | drink now or in the next 2 to 3 years
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality with good potential

Overall, this is a striking wine that delights the palate and piques the curiosity. It strikes a perfect balance between fruit and acidity, making it a versatile choice for a variety of occasions. This is not just a wine, it’s an experience – one that invites you to savor each sip while appreciating its winemaking heritage.

CRAMA FERDI | Mister S. – Editie Limitata | 2021
variety: syrah
country: Romania | Muntenia
region: Dealu Mare | Tohani
rating: 93.5

This wine pairs beautifully with roasted duck, herbed lamb chops, or a hearty mushroom risotto. Alternatively, for those enjoying a more casual setting, pair it with a classic charcuterie board featuring aged cheeses, cured meats, and assorted olives, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Crama Ferdi prioritizes sustainable farming methods, employing organic practices to ensure a healthy vineyard ecosystem. Each produced bottle is supervised by the winemaker, Fernando Marius Mihailescu.

© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation. Cheers!