Margan Saxonvale Mourvèdre originates from the historic Saxonvale vineyard in the Broke Fordwich sub-region of the Hunter Valley. Planted in the 1960s on the unique red volcanic soils of the Fordwich Sill, these old vines draw on deep mineral reserves, yielding fruit with exceptional depth and structural focus. Winemaker Andrew Margan handles the thick-skinned fruit with minimal intervention, using whole-berry fermentation in open vats with wild yeasts. The wine matures in second- and third-use French oak puncheons to preserve varietal purity, allowing the wood to frame the fruit rather than dominate it. The nose reveals satsuma plum, blueberry, and dried herbs, anchored by subtle earthy notes. The palate delivers dark forest fruits, aniseed, and a distinctive savoury edge, supported by fine, suede-like tannins and vibrant natural acidity that ensure excellent cellaring potential.

The Margan Ceres Hill Barbera 2021 shows typical rhubarb and spice on the nose, this vineyard produces a level of consistency that few others do. Savory spice on the palate provides regional typicity and bright red fruits and crunchy acidity give varietal structure and define the wine more so than tannins and richness.