2021 The Story R. Lane Vintners Westgate Vineyard Syrah

Westgate is one of the Grampians’ great vineyards. Planted in 1969, it’s long been the backbone of Rory Lane’s best wines, and in 2021 it delivered something special.

This is Syrah with a European accent – all spice, dark fruit, and finely etched tannin. There’s depth here, but also restraint: plum and cherry woven through cocoa, anise and black pepper, with that classic ferruginous thread the Grampians is known for. The palate is sleek and svelte, the fruit stretched over a framework of firm but beautifully managed tannins, promising a long life ahead.

Winemaking was sympathetic – wild yeast fermentation, 50% whole bunches, time in oak fermenters and then barrel. The result is a wine that balances elegance and power in equal measure. Both Erin Larkin (The Wine Advocate, 96+) and Campbell Mattinson (Halliday Wine Companion, 96) have praised it as one of the finest reds in Victoria – poised, detailed, and built to cellar.

It’s a flagship release for Rory Lane, and one of the most complete Syrahs to come from the Grampians in recent years.

"It's both an elegant wine and a powerful one, and its velvety mouthfeel makes it a joy to hold in your mouth. Bravo. This is beautiful."
- Campbell Mattinson (Halliday Wine Companion)