2025 Bloody Hill Villages Shiraz, Coldstream Yarra Valley

Bloody Hill Villages Shiraz from Coldstream in the Yarra Valley is a beautifully vibrant, perfumed and finely structured cool climate Shiraz from Riva Mayer, whose tiny batch releases continue to disappear almost as fast as they arrive. The fruit is drawn from carefully tended Coldstream hillside vineyards planted on gravelly clay loams and ancient mudstone, where long, mild summers and crisp evenings allow Shiraz to ripen slowly and develop fragrance, spice and fine mineral tannins rather than heavy, dense power. Everything is done by hand, from harvest to sorting, with wild yeast fermentation and Riva’s instinctive use of whole bunches to amplify perfume, lift and textural finesse while keeping the fruit front and centre. Ageing in older French oak brings savoury depth without muting the cool climate drive that defines the wine.

The aromatics are striking, showing violet, blackberry and dark plum wrapped around layers of blueberry, cracked pepper, black olive tapenade, smoked herbs and a hint of lavender. With air, nuances of cocoa, fresh earth and a faint graphite like minerality begin to rise, reflecting both site and maker.

On the palate the wine is sleek, bright and wonderfully composed. Dark berry fruit flows through fine, silky tannins, supported by lively acidity that carries the flavours with clarity and lift. Blackberry, mulberry, plum skin and subtle peppery spice stretch out into a long, beautifully savoury finish, with layers of sweet earth, herbs and cool stone echoing long after each sip. There is generosity, but also restraint and precision. With three to six years in the cellar it will deepen into more exotic spice and earthy complexity.

Brilliant with chargrilled lamb chops, roast duck, mushroom ragù, Mediterranean vegetable dishes, charcuterie, semi hard cheeses or anything cooked over wood or flame.