2025 Timo Mayer Pinot Noir Syrah, Yarra Valley

From the cool, elevated slopes of Bloody Hill comes a blend that perfectly captures Timo Mayer’s rebellious streak and cult following. Pinot Noir Syrah is one of his most intriguing Yarra Valley releases, combining the perfume and finesse of Pinot with the spice and structure of Syrah. Timo Mayer, the German born, minimal intervention vigneron, is known for generous whole bunch fermentation, wild energy and hands on vineyard work. His wines are produced in small quantities, tightly allocated and often sell out quickly on release, reinforcing their cult status among collectors who chase individuality over convention.

The colour is vivid crimson with purple flashes, reflecting the interplay between the two varieties. Aromas are lifted and expressive, showing wild strawberry, red cherry and cranberry layered with white pepper, violets and subtle blue fruit from the Syrah component. Whole bunch fermentation adds floral lift and savoury spice, creating complexity and aromatic tension.

On the palate it is medium bodied, energetic and finely structured. Juicy red berry fruit from the Pinot sits at the core, while Syrah brings depth, gentle tannic grip and a savoury edge of olive tapenade and cracked pepper. Bright natural acidity carries the wine with precision, and the finish is long, spicy and mineral driven. It is a blend that feels both playful and serious, combining perfume, texture and cool climate intensity.

Serve with grilled lamb cutlets, duck with cherry and pepper glaze, charred eggplant or mushroom and thyme dishes. It is captivating in its youth for vibrancy and lift, yet will cellar comfortably for ten to fifteen years, gaining savoury complexity and silky integration.