Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Syrah 2021

For me, this is one of the very best releases from this fine line of West Aussie Syrah. Matured for 14 months in 3,500-litre foudre, with a few additional 500-litre puncheons thrown in and 20% whole bunches. The wine is 94% Syrah with 4% Viognier, the rest a dollop of Mourvèdre. The Viognier component is not immediately obvious, but the wine is certainly gloriously lifted and aromatic. The Syrah comes from two blocks, the 1988-planted winery block being key. Deep maroon hue. The aromas here are a highlight – plums, cassis, chocolate and dry herbs with a hint of bergamot. Soft and supple in texture, it shows very good length and with really good persistence. It has a good decade of giving pleasure ahead of it – a really lovely wine.