2019 Savaterre Shiraz, Beechworth

Lifted and perfumed, with notes of Damson plums, dark cherries, sage and potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied with finely integrated tannins, bright fruit and notes of mocha, wet stones, graphite and cured meat. Truly exceptional and balanced. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

95 points jamessuckling.com

Wild fermentation, 18 months maturation in oak. Good structure here with stems playing their part to lay groundwork for a lifted, aromatic, neatly spiced – not to mention, complex – young shiraz. The perfume is inviting in ripe black cherry, bracken, woodsy spices, a splash of pepper and leafy undergrowth. Velvet-like density, fleshy texture and runs long.

95 points Jeni Port winecompanion.com.au

Soft, supple and with surprisingly wide gauge. It's a very savoury expression but feels comfortable with its lazy spread, the softness of texture (yet finishes chalky and pleasingly bitter-dry), dark fruit meshed with truffle. Aussie bush characters and old spice cupboard feel to seasoning. The more you sip, the more the grip builds. It's an intriguing, individual and compelling wine, more akin to old school pinot noir perhaps, maybe a gentle, mature Barolo but lighter and finer?! Anyways, it's a pleasure

94 points Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

The Savaterre Shiraz from Beechworth is a captivating cool-climate red wine that reflects the elegance and power of this premier Victorian wine region. Known for its meticulous winemaking and sustainable practices, Savaterre delivers a Shiraz that balances intensity with finesse, showcasing the unique terroir of its high-altitude vineyards.

On the nose, the wine opens with an alluring bouquet of dark berries, including blackcurrant and blackberry, interwoven with notes of violets, black pepper, and dried herbs. Subtle hints of smoked meat, cedar, and earthy undertones add complexity and intrigue.

The palate is rich and full-bodied, yet refined, with a velvety texture and fine-grained tannins. Flavors of ripe dark fruits are complemented by savory nuances of spice, graphite, and a touch of dark chocolate. The wine’s vibrant acidity provides balance and freshness, leading to a long, structured finish that lingers with layers of fruit and spice.

Winemaker Keppell Smith’s philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the terroir to speak through the wine. Hand-harvested fruit, wild fermentation, and careful aging in French oak barrels contribute to the wine’s depth, elegance, and complexity.

This Shiraz pairs beautifully with robust dishes such as slow-cooked lamb shanks, beef bourguignon, or chargrilled ribeye steak. It also complements rich vegetarian options like eggplant parmigiana or wild mushroom risotto. With its excellent balance and structure, the Savaterre Shiraz is approachable now but will also reward cellaring for 10–15 years, developing further complexity over time.