Clarendon Hills 'Domaine Clarendon' Syrah 2020

Clarendon Hills, based in the McLaren Vale region of South Australia, is known for its dedication to crafting single-vineyard wines that express the unique character of the terroir. Founded by Roman Bratasiuk in 1990, the winery has built a reputation for producing some of Australia’s finest Syrah (Shiraz), with minimal intervention and a focus on natural winemaking techniques. The ‘Domaine Clarendon’ Syrah is sourced from the high-altitude, dry-grown vineyards in the Clarendon sub-region, where cooler temperatures and rocky, schist soils contribute to the wine’s elegance and complexity.

The 2020 vintage was challenging with lower yields due to warm conditions, but it produced highly concentrated wines with excellent balance. The result is a Syrah that combines power with finesse, showcasing ripe fruit, structure, and a distinct mineral edge.

Appearance: Deep, inky purple with a dark, almost opaque core, revealing the wine’s concentration and intensity.

Aroma: Expressive and complex, with rich aromas of blackberries, dark plums, and blueberry, mingling with notes of black pepper, smoked meats, and dried herbs. Hints of violet, anise, and dark chocolate add further depth, with a subtle touch of oak providing sweet spice and vanilla.

Taste: Full-bodied and powerful, the palate is dominated by intense flavours of ripe black fruits—blackberry, cassis, and dark cherry—supported by savoury notes of black olive, leather, and a smoky, meaty quality. The tannins are firm but polished, providing structure without overwhelming the fruit. A vibrant acidity balances the richness, while the schist soils impart a distinctive minerality that keeps the wine fresh and precise.

Finish: Long and lingering, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and a subtle earthiness. The wine finishes on notes of black pepper, liquorice, and a hint of crushed stones, with a velvety texture that promises excellent aging potential.

Food Pairing: This bold yet balanced Syrah pairs perfectly with slow-cooked beef brisket, where its richness and smoky notes complement the deep, savoury flavours of the meat. It would also be a great match for grilled lamb with rosemary and garlic, enhancing the herbaceous, savoury aspects of the dish while balancing the meat’s natural richness.