2022 Longview Macclesfield Syrah, Adelaide Hills

Deep but bright colour. Combines elegance and finesse with an effortless medium-bodied portrait and equal length.

95 points Special Value James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

Longview Macclesfield Syrah from the Adelaide Hills is a finely structured, cool climate take on Syrah that leans toward elegance, spice and savoury detail rather than sheer power. The fruit comes from Longview’s steep, elevated vineyards at Macclesfield, one of the coolest pockets of the Hills, where altitude, constant airflow and ironstone rich sandy loam soils slow ripening and preserve freshness. Longview is a family owned estate with deep farming roots in the region, and this Syrah reflects their belief in site expression first. Hand harvesting, gentle extraction and maturation in French oak are all handled with restraint, allowing the vineyard’s natural character to lead.

The aromatics are expressive and refined. Dark cherry, blackberry and plum sit alongside cracked black pepper, violet and subtle blue fruit. Beneath the fruit lies a distinctly savoury layer of ironstone earth, dried herbs and a hint of smoked meat, giving the wine complexity and regional clarity. As it opens, notes of clove, anise and cocoa emerge, adding depth without sweetness.

The palate is medium to full bodied but beautifully poised. Juicy dark fruits move through fine, tightly woven tannins that provide structure without heaviness. Flavours of black cherry, mulberry, spice and savoury earth unfold gradually, supported by fresh acidity that keeps the wine energetic and precise. The finish is long, peppery and mineral edged, with a cool climate lift that sets it apart from warmer region Shiraz styles. It drinks well now with a decant but will reward patience over eight to twelve years, developing more cured meat, leather and earthy complexity.

An excellent match for chargrilled lamb, duck, venison, mushroom based dishes, slow cooked beef or aged hard cheeses. This is Adelaide Hills Syrah with restraint and confidence, shaped by place and crafted for those who value finesse as much as flavour.