Deep ruby at the core, with a slight purple edge, the 2018 Syrah Cut Bank Estate Vineyard opens with dense, dark black-fruited essences of spiced black cherry, dusty black raspberry and blackberry jus, before elements of cedar and maple float out of the glass with tones of black pepper and roasted lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is compact and chewy with tight, youthful tannins in the mouth while offering flavors blackberry skin, dark plum, bitter dark chocolate and black peppercorn. The long-lingering and spicy finish ends with elevated alcohol and needs another year in bottle to come around. The wine rested for 18 months in 20% new French oak barrels. 2,904 bottles were filled.

The 2017 Syrah Cut Bank Estate Vineyard comes from the foothills of the Blue Mountains from a dry-farmed and sustainably managed vineyard. Opening with a brooding and serious nose, Syrah aromas of black pepper, smoked meat, dusty lavender and notions of savory dried herbs all bind together with nuances of dusty plum, blackberry essence and black raspberries. The full-bodied expression is still agile with succulent tannins that melt away to display juicy and savory characteristics and a mineral-laced finish. Made from 20% whole-cluster Syrah, the wine aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak. Just over 1,400 bottles were produced. This is stellar juice.