2021 By Farr Shiraz By Farr

Gary Farr has been making wine in Moorabol Valley near Bannockburn, about an hour's drive from Melbourne, since 1978. Before starting work in Australia, he traveled the world and learned the trade at Domaine Dujac in Burgundy, Cristom in Oregon, and Calera in California. Unsurprisingly, it was here that he became captivated by Pinot Noir and—not without a struggle—brought it back to Australia. By Farr also produces premium Chardonnay and has planted Shiraz and Viognier. Today, the business has been taken over by the next generation, Nick Farr, although Gary still keeps a watchful eye. The By Farr winery covers an area of 130 hectares, of which 36 hectares are planted with vines.

Victoria is the wine region in southeastern Australia and one of the country's few cool climate zones. Victoria has a predominantly cool to temperate climate. The proximity of the ocean, elevation differences, and vineyard exposure play a major role. If we treat all sub-regions as a single entity, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the two specialties. They are produced in all styles. Pinot Noir varies from delicate to more structured, but the common denominator is its pure fruit character. Chardonnay ranges from full-bodied and concentrated from Geelong to light and fresh from the Mornington Peninsula.

The grapes come from a vineyard planted in 1994. The bunches are very selectively hand-picked at the right ripeness. In the vinification cellar, 80% of the bunches are destemmed. The grapes and remaining bunches then undergo cold maceration for four days, after which spontaneous alcoholic fermentation is allowed to take place in large open vats using wild (grape-native) yeasts. Pressing follows two weeks later, and the young wine is transferred to new French oak barriques (20% new) for malolactic fermentation and aging. After 18 months, the wine is blended and bottled unfiltered.

The By Farr Shiraz is deep purple-red in color. On the nose, aromas of blackcurrants, violets, bacon, mocha, anise, pepper, and a smoky note. On the palate, intense notes of ripe small black fruit, plums, bay leaf, spices, and vanilla, accompanied by a very long, velvety finish with elegant ripe tannins and subtle acidity.

FUN FACT: The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to pick up the wine, you will also receive a nice discount. We are located almost next to the main road with ample parking. Click here for the address.