2022 Murdoch Hill Syrah, Adelaide Hills

This is the perfect young syrah to drink, courtesy of the fact that it serves up fleshy fruit so generously but then splays it with nut, pepper and woodsy spice notes. It offers sweet fruit, spiciness and savouriness all in one. It combines all this with svelte texture and finishes things off with a hit of anise. Yes, please.

93 points Campbell Mattinson winecompanion.com.au

High on the ridgelines of the Adelaide Hills, Murdoch Hill has become one of the region’s most exciting modern producers, crafting wines that feel both finely detailed and deeply expressive of site. The Downer family has farmed this land since the 1930s, with current custodian Michael Downer bringing a thoughtful, contemporary approach that blends minimal intervention with meticulous vineyard work. Their Syrah reflects the cooler, more savoury face of the variety, shaped by elevation, long growing seasons and ancient rocky soils that lend both perfume and structure.

A vivid crimson purple hue introduces a beautifully lifted aromatic profile. Fragrant notes of blackberry, blueberry and dark cherry mingle with cracked pepper, violets and hints of smoked meat and dried herbs. There is a Northern Rhône inspired elegance here, where spice and floral complexity sit comfortably alongside vibrant fruit purity.

The palate is medium bodied and energetic, flowing with juicy black fruit, plum skin and savoury olive tapenade nuances framed by fine tannins and bright acidity. Subtle oak integration adds texture without weight, finishing long and mineral with a gentle peppery echo. This Syrah will reward careful cellaring over eight to twelve years as notes of game, leather and exotic spice develop further depth.

A superb match for flavour driven dishes and relaxed gatherings, it shines with chargrilled lamb cutlets, roast duck, spiced lentil stew or mushroom and thyme tart. Murdoch Hill Syrah captures the cool climate sophistication of Adelaide Hills Shiraz Syrah, perfect for fireside dinners, shared plates and moments where conversation flows as smoothly as the wine.