2023 Standish 'The Relic' Shiraz

The Relic is Standish’s Shiraz–Viognier co-ferment, sourced from the Hongell Family Vineyard in Krondorf. The official site lists the wine as Shiraz with a small Viognier component, while 2023 release notes describe the Viognier as a tiny co-fermented addition used for aromatic lift and to soften the naturally forceful tannin profile of the site. The vineyard sits on clay loam over weathered bedrock with bands of quartz, a setting that gives the wine depth, grip, and dark mineral tension.

In the glass, it shows a deep, near-opaque ruby colour. The nose is brooding and exotic, with blackberry, dark plum, violet, bergamot, licorice, iodine, sea salt, warm earth, spice, and a faint stone-fruit lift from the Viognier. On the palate, it is rich, silky, and enveloping, with polished tannins, deep black fruit, savoury mineral tones, and a long, smooth finish that feels powerful but controlled.

This is the most sensual wine in the line-up: darker and more mysterious than Lamella, less earthy than The Standish, with a distinctive aromatic lift and a velvet-like texture.

Perfect with lamb, duck, venison, slow-cooked beef, spiced game dishes, mushrooms, and aged cheeses.

Serve: 16–18 °C
Drink: 2027–2045