Tua Rita is one of the leading lights of the Tuscan coast, based at Suvereto in the Maremma and best known for the cult bottling Redigaffi. The Keir is the estate's experimental Syrah, a small-production cuvée vinified entirely in terracotta amphorae, a return to one of the oldest vessels in winemaking and a notable departure from the oak-aged style that defines much of the rest of the cellar.
Hand-harvested Syrah is fermented and aged in clay, with no new oak influence at any stage. The amphorae allow gentle oxygen exchange while imparting no wood flavour, preserving the variety's natural perfume and the bright fruit character of the warm coastal site.
The nose is pure and lifted, with aromas of fresh raspberry, juicy cherry and dark berries layered with rosemary, dried flowers, clove, white pepper and a touch of meaty Syrah lift. The palate is medium to full bodied, energetic and perfumed, with very fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish that nods to both classic Northern Rhône Syrah and the Mediterranean warmth of its origin.