Brackenwood Syrah 2020 from Brackenwood Vineyard in the cool Southern Adelaide Hills is a beautifully fragrant, lighter‑framed Syrah that nods to the estate’s very first 2005 release while pushing into a fresher, more lifted style. This 2020 Brackenwood Syrah uses a portion of carbonic maceration to dial up bright fruit and perfume, giving a lively, modern take on Hills Shiraz. It’s a fine, lithe, pretty red that’s made to be immensely drinkable rather than big and burly.

In the glass, expect a vibrant, translucent ruby with a bouquet of violets, blackcurrant, blue fruits and cinnamon, laced with savoury white pepper and bunchy spice. The palate is pinpoint and medium‑bodied, with a plethora of red and blue berries, gentle whole‑bunch savouriness and peppery complexity. Tannins are fine and silky, acidity is bright, and the finish is long, perfumed and refreshingly moreish, especially with a light chill.

Brackenwood Syrah 2020 is spot‑on with charcuterie, grilled lamb cutlets, herb‑rubbed chicken or smoky eggplant off the BBQ. It will also sit beautifully alongside mushroom dishes, duck, roasted beetroot salads and semi‑hard cheeses that let the wine’s floral, spicy side shine. If you’re chasing an elegant, cool‑climate Adelaide Hills Syrah that’s fragrant, food‑loving and just a bit different, this Brackenwood Syrah 2020 is a brilliant choice.