2020 Coates The Garden of Perfume & Spice Syrah, McLaren Vale Adelaide Hills

Coates The Garden of Perfume & Spice Syrah is an evocative and handcrafted expression of cool-climate Syrah, made by the ever-curious and quietly brilliant winemaker Duane Coates MW. Drawing fruit from both McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills, this Syrah elegantly bridges the ripeness and power of the Vale with the spice-laced aromatics and structural finesse of the Hills.

Duane, known for his minimal intervention approach and love of French varietals, treats Syrah with serious reverence here. Whole berries are fermented with wild yeasts before spending extended time in seasoned French oak, allowing the wine to develop complexity without overshadowing the purity of the fruit. The result is a Syrah that’s aromatic, textural and quietly thrilling.

As its name suggests, the nose is an intoxicating bouquet of violets, cracked pepper, star anise and wild herbs. The palate follows through with mulberry, blueberry, savoury spice and a fine earthy thread, all framed by velvety tannins and vibrant acidity.

Perfect with Moroccan lamb tagine, duck with plum sauce, or grilled eggplant with za’atar and labneh. Cellar potential is excellent, with 8 to 12 years of graceful evolution expected.