Castagna Sauvage 2016

Castagna is a small, family-run biodynamic winery in the Beechworth region of Victoria, Australia, founded by Julian Castagna. Known for its minimal-intervention approach, Castagna produces wines that express both the terroir and the philosophy of natural balance. The Sauvage 2016 is a strikingly elegant Syrah (Shiraz) that reflects both the Rhône-influenced winemaking style and the granite-rich soils of Beechworth. With a focus on purity and structure, this wine is unfiltered, naturally fermented, and aged in French oak, allowing for a seamless integration of fruit, spice, and savoury complexity.

The Beechworth region, with its high altitude and cool nights, allows for slow ripening, preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic intensity. The soils are composed of decomposed granite, lending a distinct mineral edge to the wine. Whole-bunch fermentation and extended maceration are used to build structure and complexity, while careful ageing in well-seasoned French oak ensures elegance rather than overt oakiness.

Appearance: Deep ruby with a purple core, showing excellent clarity and vibrancy. The colour remains rich and intense, suggesting concentration and longevity. As the wine swirls, slow-moving legs cling to the glass, hinting at its balanced weight and texture.

Aroma: Incredibly complex and lifted, with layers of dark cherry, blackberry, and wild blueberry. Distinct notes of white pepper, star anise, and dried herbs emerge, reflecting the whole-bunch fermentation. Earthy undertones of forest floor and leather add depth, while a hint of smoked meat and graphite lingers in the background, giving it an old-world Rhône-like character.

Taste: Silky yet structured, with dark fruit purity and savoury spice in perfect harmony. Black plum, cassis, and black raspberry dominate, while fine-grained tannins provide grip and definition. Notes of black olive, cured meat, and dried sage add intrigue, with a vibrant acidity carrying the flavours through to a beautifully poised mid-palate. The oak influence is subtle, allowing the wine’s natural spice and earthiness to shine.

Finish: Exceptionally long, with layers of dark fruit, cracked pepper, and a persistent mineral freshness. The tannins are firm but refined, suggesting excellent ageing potential. A final whisper of smoky graphite and umami richness lingers, adding to the wine’s complexity and depth.

Food Pairing:
Slow-braised lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic, where the wine’s spice and earthy notes enhance the richness of the meat.
Chargrilled portobello mushrooms with black garlic aioli, as the wine’s savoury depth complements the umami and smoky character of the dish.