2019 Timo Mayer Syrah, Yarra Valley

Very fresh and bright fruits in a cherry/plum/spice spectrum. Medium-bodied, supple, smooth and very long.

94 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

Subtle aromas of blackberry, gun metal, cloves and white pepper follow through to a medium body with round, creamy tannins that are polished and beautiful. Firm and lively with a flavorful finish. Drink or hold.

94 points jamessuckling.com

From the cool slopes of the Yarra Valley comes a Syrah that has firmly cemented its cult reputation among Australian collectors. Timo Mayer, the German born, whole bunch champion behind Bloody Hill, crafts this wine with minimal intervention, wild ferment and a hands on vineyard philosophy. His releases are small, tightly allocated and consistently sell out quickly, driven by a loyal following that values energy and individuality over polish. In the Yarra Valley’s cool climate, Syrah leans toward the northern Rhône in style, favouring spice, perfume and savoury detail rather than sheer weight.

Vivid crimson with flashes of purple in the glass, the aromatics are lifted and expressive. Red cherry, raspberry and blueberry unfold alongside cracked white pepper, violets and dried herbs. The generous whole bunch inclusion adds floral lift and stem spice, building aromatic complexity and tension.

On the palate it is medium bodied, vibrant and finely structured. Juicy red and blue fruits sit at the core, supported by silky yet persistent tannins and bright natural acidity. Savoury notes of olive tapenade, clove and subtle smoked meat weave through the mid palate, while a mineral thread carries through to a long, pepper laced finish. It is Syrah defined by finesse, structure and cool climate purity.

Serve with grilled lamb cutlets, duck with cherry glaze, charred eggplant or slow braised beef with herbs. Compelling in its youth for perfume and vitality, it will cellar confidently for ten to fifteen years, developing deeper savoury and earthy complexity while retaining freshness.