Gentle Folk Syrah 2024

Gentle Folk, established by Gareth and Rainbo Belton, is a boutique winery located in the Basket Range of the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. Transitioning from careers in marine science to viticulture, the Beltons have dedicated themselves to organic and sustainable farming practices. Their wines are known for their purity and expression of terroir, with minimal intervention in the winemaking process.

The 2024 Gentle Folk Syrah is crafted from carefully selected vineyard sites in the Adelaide Hills, an area known for its cool climate and elegant, aromatic expressions of Syrah. The long, slow ripening season enhances the wine’s natural acidity and refined tannins, while the vineyard’s diverse soils contribute to its depth and complexity. Gentle Folk’s hands-off winemaking approach includes whole-bunch fermentation and aging in neutral oak to preserve freshness and showcase the wine’s purity.

Appearance: Deep ruby red with a youthful vibrancy, indicating freshness and potential for aging. The wine’s clarity and rich colour hint at its concentration, while slow, elegant legs suggest a well-balanced structure.

Aroma: A lifted bouquet of blackberries, dark cherries, and wild blueberries, intertwined with delicate floral notes of violets and lavender. Subtle spice elements—black pepper, clove, and star anise—mingle with earthy undertones of graphite and dried herbs, adding layers of complexity.

Taste: Juicy and expressive, with ripe black and blue fruit leading the way—think mulberries, blackcurrants, and dark plums. The palate is structured yet elegant, with fine-grained tannins providing depth. Hints of black olive, crushed stone, and a gentle smokiness add savoury complexity, balanced by bright acidity that keeps the wine lively and refreshing.

Finish: Long and refined, with lingering notes of dark berries, cracked pepper, and a whisper of dried rosemary. The tannins remain smooth and well-integrated, allowing the wine’s mineral and floral qualities to shine through, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and finesse.

Food Pairing:
Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and garlic, where the wine’s tannins and dark fruit complement the meat’s richness.
Charred eggplant and spiced lentil stew, allowing the wine’s peppery and earthy notes to harmonise with the dish’s smoky and savoury flavours