The 2022 Swinney Syrah is one of the benchmark modern Australian Syrahs, sourced from the Wilson’s Pool and Powderbark vineyards in Frankland River, Western Australia. Crafted by Rob Mann using wild fermentation, partial whole-bunch inclusion and maturation in large-format French oak, the wine reflects Swinney’s signature style — combining Rhône-like perfume and savoury complexity with the distinctive ironstone-driven minerality of Frankland River. The nose is deeply aromatic and layered, revealing blackberry, forest fruits and black cherry alongside cracked pepper, clove and alpine herbs. There are savoury notes of charcuterie, iodine, olive and steel-like minerality, with floral lift and subtle spice adding complexity and freshness. The aromatic profile is intensely detailed yet restrained, leaning more toward Northern Rhône Syrah than traditional rich Australian Shiraz.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with finely sculpted tannins and vibrant acidity that gives the wine remarkable energy and precision. Dark berry fruits are framed by savoury spice, blood orange, saffron and ferrous mineral notes, creating a wine that feels both powerful and highly controlled. Compared to fuller-bodied Barossa Shiraz styles, the Swinney is more savoury, mineral and structured, with a cool-climate profile that emphasizes freshness and detail over sheer richness. The finish is long, saline and persistent, with those signature ironstone tannins carrying through beautifully.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the standout Syrahs in Australia right now — a wine that consistently punches far above its price point while delivering genuine site expression and ageing potential. Compared to richer Australian Shiraz, Swinney offers far more tension, savoury complexity and Rhône-inspired finesse, sitting stylistically somewhere between Cornas and modern cool-climate Australian Syrah. The 2022 vintage is especially impressive, combining concentration from the excellent season with exceptional freshness and structure. Already captivating with a decant, but this wine will comfortably cellar through 2038+ as it develops further savoury, earthy and tertiary complexity. Exceptional with lamb, venison, chargrilled beef or richly savoury dishes.
