The 2022 Swinney Mourvèdre is one of the most compelling modern Australian expressions of the variety, sourced from dry-grown bush vines at the Wilson’s Pool Vineyard in Frankland River, Western Australia. Crafted by Rob Mann, the wine reflects Swinney’s pioneering work with Mediterranean varieties in this cooler Great Southern climate — a region now widely regarded as one of the best places in Australia for Mourvèdre. The 2022 vintage was picked slightly earlier than previous years to preserve freshness and tension, resulting in a wine of remarkable energy, perfume and structure. The nose is deeply aromatic and savoury, revealing dusty raspberry, red plum and wild blackberry layered with dried herbs, earth, ironstone and subtle spice. There are characteristic Mourvèdre notes of game, charcuterie and warm earth, but handled with impressive finesse and purity rather than rusticity. Floral lift and mineral complexity sit above the fruit, giving the wine both intrigue and freshness.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with supple texture, fine chalky tannins and vibrant natural acidity. Red and dark berry fruits are framed by savoury spice, ferrous minerality and earthy complexity, with the structure carrying remarkable precision and length. Compared to richer South Australian Mourvèdre styles, the Swinney is more elegant and mineral-driven, with a cooler-climate profile that emphasises freshness and detail. The finish is long, focused and persistent, with a beautifully savoury, ironstone edge that has become a hallmark of the Swinney wines.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the benchmark Mourvèdres in Australia — a wine that has helped redefine what the variety can achieve locally. Compared to traditional GSM-blend Mourvèdre, this bottling gives the grape centre stage, showcasing its earthy savouriness, spice and structural finesse in a far more transparent way. Stylistically, it sits somewhere between Bandol and modern Australian Rhône-inspired reds, with outstanding balance between fruit, tannin and minerality. The 2022 vintage is especially complete and harmonious, already highly impressive with air but clearly capable of long ageing. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar through 2038+ as it develops further leather, spice and gamey tertiary complexity. Exceptional with lamb, venison, slow-cooked beef, chargrilled meats or richly savoury Mediterranean dishes.
