Bushfire Recovery 2025 Syrah Negroamaro

In January 2026, the Harcourt Co-op Cool Stores - and most of our wine - was destroyed by bushfire. This part of the series combines bold chocolate depths from Heathcote with Macedon Ranges' elegance and Negroamaro crunchiness. We are so grateful to our community for helping us bring together these small parcels of wine.

Tasting Notes
A meeting of sites and varieties that reads almost like an infusion - dark, lifted and edged with something gently bitter. The nose opens with depth (expect blackberry, dark plum and cocoa), before shifting into more lifted tones: cracked pepper, dried herbs and a faint orange peel note that gives it a subtle amaro-like feel. There’s a quiet interplay between richness and freshness, never settling too heavily in either direction. On the palate, Heathcote Shiraz brings the initial generosity of dark fruit and a soft-chocolate weight, while Macedon Shiraz carries the mid-palate with poise and shape. Negroamaro emerges through the back half, adding a herbal edge and a fine, drying grip that pulls the wine long. The inclusion of whole bunch lifts the fruit profile and threads a gentle spice throughout, while time in barrel has softened and integrated the layers.

The finish is savoury, persistent and lightly bitter and, as the name suggests, reminiscent of amaro.

Pairing Suggestions
Suits richer, savoury dishes with herbal or bitter elements, such as braised lamb, eggplant with tomato and oregano, or anything with olives and char. It also works surprisingly well with aged cheeses or dishes that carry a touch of spice or smoke.

Winemaking Notes
A blend of Heathcote Shiraz, Macedon Shiraz and Nagambie Lakes Negroamaro. The Shiraz components were fermented with approximately 20% whole bunch to build aromatic lift and structure, before the wine was matured in barrel for 12 months. The approach leans toward a more restrained, Syrah-like expression, drawing out spice and savoury detail, rather than overt weight. Heathcote contributes depth and dark fruit, Macedon brings balance and shape, and Negroamaro adds a distinctive herbal edge and structural tension through the finish.