2022 Bloody Hill Villages Syrah, Coldstream Yarra Valley

Bloody Hill Villages Syrah from Coldstream in the Yarra Valley is a finely tuned, cool climate expression that leans into spice, savoury detail and restraint rather than sheer power. Coldstream sits at the warmer end of the Yarra, but with elevation and consistent airflow that preserve freshness and allow Syrah to develop complexity without losing line. The result is a wine that feels composed, aromatic and distinctly Yarra in character.

Bloody Hill is a boutique Yarra Valley producer with a strong focus on site expression and minimal intervention. The Villages range is designed to showcase regional character rather than individual blocks, bringing together fruit from carefully selected sites around Coldstream. Winemaking is gentle and thoughtful, favouring whole berry fermentation, restrained extraction and subtle oak to frame the fruit rather than dominate it.

In the glass, the wine is expressive and lifted. Red and black cherry, blackberry and plum sit alongside cracked pepper, clove and violet. As it opens, savoury notes of dried herbs, graphite and a hint of earth emerge, adding depth and complexity.

On the palate, Bloody Hill Villages Syrah is medium bodied and beautifully balanced. Juicy dark fruit flavours flow through a supple mid palate, supported by fresh acidity and fine, powdery tannins. The texture is silky and energetic rather than dense, with spice and savoury elements building toward a long, refined finish. Oak is well integrated, contributing subtle structure and polish without masking the wine’s freshness.

This is a Syrah that shines with food. It pairs beautifully with lamb, duck, grilled vegetables, mushrooms or spice rubbed meats. Drinking well now for its brightness and detail, it will also cellar comfortably over five to eight years, gaining more savoury and earthy complexity with time.

Bloody Hill Villages Syrah is elegant, restrained and unmistakably Yarra Valley. A cool climate Syrah that rewards those who appreciate finesse, spice and balance over raw power.