2021 Murdoch Hill Orion Syrah, Adelaide Hills

Deep and dense ruby core with purple glints at the rim. Deeply fragrant with mulberry, nori, and pepper spice aromas. Medium bodied with dark fruits, black slate and nori flavours flowing through a tightly wound core. Tannins are fine-grained but powerful and they ensure the line and length is prodigious. Has many years ahead of it 08 Feb 2023 Drink 2023–2038

96 points Stuart Knox therealreview.com

Has excellent colour grading to a vivid purple-crimson rim. The bouquet and palate sing lustily from the same page, with black fruits, spices, dark chocolate, licorice and sandalwood. It's built for the long haul.

96 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

Murdoch Hill Orion Syrah from Adelaide Hills is a vibrant, cool-climate expression of Syrah, crafted by winemaker Michael Downer. Known for his hands-on approach and dedication to minimal intervention, Downer has turned Murdoch Hill into one of the region’s most exciting producers. The Orion Syrah comes from carefully selected parcels in the high-altitude vineyards of Adelaide Hills, where the cool climate allows for extended ripening, producing Syrah with elegance, bright acidity, and fine tannin structure.

In the glass, it shines with a deep ruby hue and offers a fragrant bouquet of dark cherry, blackberry, and plum, lifted by notes of cracked pepper, violets, and a hint of smoked charcuterie. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied but packed with flavor—blackberry compote, blueberry, and redcurrant, all layered with earthy spice and subtle oak influence. The tannins are silky yet firm, giving the wine a seamless structure, while the fresh acidity keeps everything lively and balanced. A long, savory finish leaves traces of graphite, olive tapenade, and peppery spice.

This Syrah is a dream pairing for chargrilled lamb cutlets, roasted duck, or eggplant parmigiana. It also complements aged hard cheeses and game meats. While drinking beautifully now, Orion Syrah has the structure and vibrancy to evolve gracefully over the next 8–12 years, developing further complexity and savory depth.

Murdoch Hill Orion Syrah is a shining example of what cool-climate Australian Syrah can be—refined, expressive, and packed with character. It’s the kind of wine that keeps you coming back for another sip.