2023 Meadowbank Syrah

Our relationship with Shiraz began well over 40 years ago, when the first of these vines were planted at Meadowbank and have been lovingly nurtured by the Ellis family ever since. No doubt there were a few raised eyebrows back in 1976, and a few words probably being muttered under disbelieving breaths... However, despite being told we couldn't grow Shiraz in the cold, untamed wilds of southern Tasmania, we went ahead and did it anyway! Our 2023 Meadowbank Syrah, named so due to the fruit and style being more akin to the Syrah of France's Northern Rhone region, is a purposeful step away from big, bold and boisterous Shiraz. It is wholeheartedly elegant and ethereal, in all its unashamed glory. This single vineyard wine is smooth and sultry, with just the right amount of sass, as it truly reflects the temperament and intricaties of the 2023 growing season that we experienced in our hidden valley. Expect an elegant and savoury red wine, with a satin-like texture that makes it very, very drinkable. A punch of acid, balanced with highly refined tannins that speak of the cool climate in which these grapes were grown. Pete made this wine by allowing the grapes to naturally ferment on their skins for 12 days. Délestage occured early in this process and pigéage occured late. The juice was then pressed to old French oak barrels, with 9 months spent on lees before the wine was racked and bottled, with no filtration and minimal sulphur added. Drink this right now, or tuck it away in the cellar and enjoy observing the changes from 2030 onwards. Your patience will be rewarded.