2023 Syrahmi Garden of Earthly Delights Sangiovese

This is Syrahmi’s Sangiovese from the Kennedy vineyard in Colbinabbin, grown on classic red Cambrian dirt. It’s made without additions, wild fermented after full destemming, and kept on skins for 22 days before being matured in large French foudre and seasoned Austrian oak. No tricks, just proper handling to show off the fruit and soil.

Stylistically, it leans savoury and structured - a far cry from the soft, easygoing Sangiovese you sometimes see locally. Black cherry and dark plum set the tone, with balsamic, bitter chocolate, thyme and undergrowth rounding it out. There’s real depth to the palate, but it stays firm and taut thanks to the fine tannin and bright line of acidity.

This isn’t a crowd-pleaser, and it’s not trying to be. It’s a serious, soil-driven Sangiovese built with patience and purpose, made for drinkers who appreciate clarity, restraint, and old-world sensibility done well on Australian ground.

95 points
"Seductive from the first taste, such is the mix of brio and earthy savouriness. Lives up to its name, an earthly delight..."
- Jeni Port (Halliday Wine Companion)