Clarendon Hills 'Sandown' Syrah 2018

Clarendon Hills, based in South Australia's McLaren Vale, is famed for its dedication to single-vineyard wines that highlight the specific terroirs of the region. The ‘Sandown’ Syrah is sourced from old vines rooted in sandy loam soils, which impart a unique elegance and minerality to the wine. Known for producing wines of immense concentration and complexity, Clarendon Hills employs minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard’s character to fully express itself. The 2018 vintage was a balanced and favourable year, producing wines with intense fruit flavours, vibrant acidity, and excellent aging potential.

Appearance: Deep garnet with purple highlights, revealing both the wine’s concentration and youthful vibrancy.

Aroma: An expressive bouquet of dark berries—blackberry, blueberry, and plum—mingling with savoury aromas of black olive, cured meat, and dried herbs. Notes of black pepper, liquorice, and subtle oak spices like vanilla and clove add layers of complexity to the nose.

Taste: Full-bodied and rich, the palate is dominated by ripe black fruits—blackberry, dark cherry, and blueberry—balanced by savoury elements such as smoked herbs, black pepper, and a touch of leather. The fine-grained tannins are well-structured but velvety, giving the wine an elegant texture. There’s a refreshing acidity that keeps the wine lively, while the oak aging is subtle, adding depth without overpowering the vibrant fruit and savoury characteristics.

Finish: Long and layered, with lingering dark fruit, pepper, and earthy notes. The finish is smooth and polished, with fine tannins and a persistent minerality that reflects the vineyard’s sandy loam soils. It promises further complexity with age.

Food Pairing: This elegant Syrah pairs beautifully with chargrilled lamb chops with rosemary, where the wine’s peppery spice and dark fruit complement the rich, savoury flavours of the meat. It would also be a great match for wild mushroom risotto, with the wine’s earthiness and vibrant acidity enhancing the creamy, earthy flavours of the dish.