The folks: We’re proud to report that this wine comes from Nikki Lohitnavy of Granmonte in Khao Yai, Thailand’s first female winemaker. The estate is a Lohitnavy family enterprise through and through and has been making wine since 2001, but we can’t help but think that it’s this bottle—made with Nikki back from her oenology studies and apprenticeships and their very own, in-house winery—that’s begun to put Granmonte and Thai reds on the map. The 2009 Heritage Syrah won a silver medal at this year’s Decanter Awards.

The grape: Made from 100% syrah grapes (the same as what Australians and other New World winemakers call shiraz). Syrah is known for its complex flavors and aromas and its drinkability. Typical elements can range from spices to animal/leather to black fruits to coffee to smoke. It’s also a very rich grape with a great deal of color.

The look: A typical color for a youthful syrah. Clear, deep ruby red, almost purple.

The smell: Nice and complex with bits of leather, chocolate, black pepper and even a touch of smoke. The fruits are dark, like black cherries and plums.

The sip: Very nice indeed. A warmer-weather syrah, this wine feels big and juicy in the mouth, with prominent dark fruit flavors which is balanced by medium acidity (yes, red wine has acidity, too—just try a Chianti and you’ll see what we mean). There are velvety tannins and hints of sweet oak, too, so seasoned red wine drinkers will appreciate this wine, too.

The food: The acidity and body of this wine might hold up some Thai curries. We want to have this next with some grilled red meat, like lamb kebab or neua yang with jim jaew.

The damage: A very affordable B760 at Tops Supermarket or any of the Central Wine Cellars.