This is only the second time Bryan Martin has bottled a straight Syrah from his estate vineyard, and it’s one for the purists. No Viognier, no whole bunches - just pristine Shiraz fruit handled with patience and restraint. The wine was fermented as whole berries, left on skins for an extended six weeks, then pressed to a single new Taransaud puncheon. Two years in barrel has given it polish and depth without drowning out the fruit. It’s a different voice to the more perfumed Shiraz Viognier Ravensworth is known for - darker, more savoury, with fine tannins and real structure. Think black fruits, spice, a touch of earth, and a long, measured finish. Made in tiny quantities (just 60 dozen), this is a rare and thoughtful expression of Canberra District Shiraz - one that will reward a decade or more in the cellar, but already shows the precision and finesse that defines Bryan’s wines.

Here, we have a wine of ample fragrance, texture and appeal. It’s perfumed with yellow florals, citrus and stone fruits and a nice, subtle background of savoury nuttiness. The components are well balanced, working in harmony to create a wine of fresh acidity and full, fleshy textures, making this a gastronomic delight. Consume as you would a Chardonnay—not too cold and in a generous glass.

This Shiraz Viognier has aromas of spice, red fruit and cedar. It is very aromatic with the same spiced fruit flavour persisting throughout the palate.