Castagna Sauvage 2016 from Castagna in Beechworth is a deeply fragrant, medium‑bodied red blend of Syrah, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, sitting stylistically just below Genesis but offering incredible complexity and value.

The nose is wildly expressive – smoked sweet meats, boysenberry, darker cherry and kirsch, all drenched in an “Indian spice packet” of star anise, clove and cardamom, with hints of raspberry, plum and savoury herbs. On the palate it’s perfumed and juicy yet refined: textured raspberry and red fruit, sweet‑sour cherry and spice carried on a medium‑bodied frame, with the now‑familiar Castagna tannins – exceptionally fine, dusty and spicy – plus fresh acidity giving energy, verve and length

Food‑wise, Castagna Sauvage 2016 is tailor‑made for beef and venison, lamb, game birds, rich ragù, and mushroom or truffle dishes, where its savoury spice and fine tannins shine. Certified organic and biodynamic, it’s a seriously characterful Beechworth red that delivers a lot of the Genesis Syrah experience at a more approachable price, and has the structure to age comfortably over a decade.