2023 Place of Changing Winds Syrah No 2 Organic, Heathcote

Place of Changing Winds Syrah No 2 Organic from Heathcote is a striking cool-climate interpretation of Syrah that blends fragrance, savoury detail and fine structure. The estate, founded by wine writer and importer Bibendum’s Philip Rich, sits in the Macedon Ranges but also works with select sites in Heathcote, an area famous for its ancient Cambrian soils and naturally low-yielding vines.

Syrah No 2 is the more approachable of the winery’s two Syrah releases, yet it still carries the precision and restraint that define Place of Changing Winds. Certified organic, the fruit comes from high-quality Heathcote vineyards farmed with minimal intervention. The 2023 vintage (typical for this cuvée) was handpicked, with a significant proportion of whole bunches in the ferment to enhance aromatics and add gentle tannin grip. Wild yeast fermentation is followed by maturation in a mix of seasoned French oak and concrete, preserving freshness and texture.

In the glass, it shows a bright purple-ruby hue with aromas of blackberry, blueberry, black pepper, violet and a touch of smoked meat. The palate is medium-bodied and finely poised, with juicy dark fruits layered over savoury spice, fresh acidity and fine, powdery tannins. There’s an elegance and lift here that nods to Northern Rhône Syrah, yet the fruit ripeness and earthy undertones speak clearly of Heathcote.

It’s a superb food wine, pairing beautifully with roast lamb and rosemary, chargrilled vegetables, duck with pepperberry jus or a lentil and mushroom ragoût. Best enjoyed now for its vibrant fruit, though it has the balance to age gracefully over the next 8 to 10 years.