Castagna 'Genesis' Syrah 2019

Castagna is a boutique winery in Victoria’s King Valley, celebrated for its meticulous approach to vineyard management and expressive, terroir-driven wines. The ‘Genesis’ Syrah is their flagship, renowned for its concentration, elegance, and ability to age gracefully. The 2019 vintage experienced ideal conditions with warm days and cool nights, producing deeply ripe, aromatic fruit while maintaining vibrant natural acidity.

Vines are planted on free-draining soils over ancient sedimentary rock, which stresses the vines and produces small, concentrated berries. Hand-harvested grapes were destemmed and gently fermented in open-top fermenters, with careful extraction to preserve purity of fruit. The wine matured for 18 months in a combination of new and seasoned French oak barrels, enhancing its structure, texture, and complexity.

Appearance Deep, dark garnet with violet hues at the rim, almost opaque at the core. Slow, viscous legs indicate a full-bodied structure and high concentration, reflecting the wine’s intensity and ageing potential.

Aroma Intense aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and plum are intertwined with hints of smoked meat, black pepper, dried herbs, and subtle floral notes, offering complexity and intrigue.

Taste Rich and full-bodied, the palate displays concentrated dark fruit balanced by fine, grainy tannins and vibrant acidity. Layered spice, earthy undertones, and a touch of oak integrate seamlessly, giving depth and harmony.

Finish Long and persistent, leaving lingering notes of dark berries, pepper, and a subtle smoky nuance that evolves gracefully.

Food Pairing Slow-cooked beef cheek enhances the wine’s richness and depth. Grilled portobello mushrooms with a balsamic glaze also highlight the earthy, spicy character.