palmer-2012-syrahWinemaker Miguel Martin recommends lightly chilling his Palmer Vineyards 2012 Syrah ($20) and it’s easy to see why — it’s tastier that way.

At normal drinking temperature, this light red (almost a rosado) — one that was made with 40% carbonic maceration — lacks a bit of structure with low tannins and not quite enough acidity to make up for it. But lightly chilled, the acidity is more apparent, framing peppery red fruit flavors accented by subtle violet character.

So chill it down, grill some pork chops or tenderloin and enjoy it on a warm summer night.

Producer: Palmer Vineyards
AVA: North Fork of Long Island
ABV: 12.5%
Price: $20*

(2.5 out of 5, Average-to-Very Good)