CLARENDON HILLS Astralis Syrah, McLaren Vale

A warm, early harvest. This really intense shiraz has such exotic and complex style with aromas of red plum, pomegranate, blackberry and sandalwood, as well as sweeter florals and graphite. Really dynamic. The palate has almost impenetrable density with high extract and long, ripe dark-fruit flavors. Dark-chocolate finish. Still a pup. Try from 2024. 

SWINNEY Farvie Syrah, Frankland River

If I was in awe of their top wines before I tasted this, I am now blown away. The colour is a deep magenta. The nose immediately signals the elegance to come. Complete, generous, balanced and with such finesse. Notes of cherries, dry herbs, tobacco leaves, blueberries, hints of truffles, licorice and a flick of pepper. Seamless, there is weight but the wine dances with silk for tannins. Good intensity throughout, but it is never intrusive. Superb length too, this is a brilliant wine. I originally gave it 97++, as I have no doubt even better is to come, but I thought that was squibbing it, so 98. If the price raises concerns, compare it to the best from the Barossa and have a think if it is still excessive. Better yet, what would you pay for a comparable Rhône? Makes this cheap as chips. Wonderful stuff. If you are serious about wine, I can think of no possible excuse that would prevent anyone from having this in their cellar.