Remember how James Halliday called the Jimmy Watson-winning 2013 S.C. Pannell Adelaide Hills Syrah the “poster child of savoury-accented Australian red wine”? Well – emblematic, charismatic and extremely addictive – the poster child is back.
We’re really pleased to present the latest release of this modern classic from Stephen Pannell, from the exceptional 2015 vintage in the Adelaide Hills. “I think and hope this will turn out to be one of the best wines we’ve made,” says the man himself. It’s got all the hallmarks of the Jimmy-winning 2013: the lovely lift, bright, transparent fruit and spicy depth, not to mention the freshness and texture that have become a synonymous with the Pannell reds. If anything, you might say this 2015 is a touch more “grown up” – but without losing any of the instant charm and youthful exuberance that made the ’13 such a bloody pleasure to drink.
2015 S.C. PANNELL ADELAIDE HILLS SYRAH RRP $40
VINEYARD & WINEMAKING
This single-vineyard, cool-climate Syrah was sourced from Echunga, 410 metres above sea level in the southern Adelaide Hills. The fruit is grown on well-drained, granitic soil – Steve’s preference for Syrah. Hand-harvested and traditionally vinified in small open-top fermenters. Aged for 10 months in large-format French oak vats and puncheons.
TASTING
Fresh cranberry and cherry on the nose, with oodles of spice and dried herbs, plus white pepper. There’s a hint of mandarin-like citrus in the background. It’s the silky, slippery medium-bodied palate that’s most interesting with this wine, though. The aromatics and flavours lead you into thinking it’s quite light but as you taste it, the power and intensity unfurl to reveal density and spine, carrying it long through the finish.