The 2023 Novum Basket Press Syrah is a bold yet finely detailed expression of modern Australian Syrah, crafted with an emphasis on texture, purity and minimal intervention. Produced in small quantities, this wine reflects Novum’s hands-on approach, with traditional basket pressing employed to gently extract colour, flavour and tannin while preserving aromatic precision and balance.
The 2023 vintage delivered favourable ripening conditions, allowing Syrah to develop deep fruit concentration alongside freshness and structural clarity. Basket pressing adds a layer of refinement, contributing to the wine’s supple tannin profile and seamless mouthfeel.
Aromatically, the wine opens with notes of blackberry, dark cherry and blueberry, layered with violet, cracked black pepper and subtle savoury spice. Hints of olive tapenade, dried herbs and graphite add complexity and regional character.
On the palate, the 2023 Basket Press Syrah is medium to full-bodied, richly fruited yet composed. Dark berry flavours flow across a plush, finely textured frame, supported by polished tannins and balanced acidity. Nuances of cocoa, anise, spice and gentle oak integrate harmoniously, leading to a long, smooth and savoury finish.
This Syrah is approachable in its youth yet possesses the structure to evolve gracefully over the medium term. It is an excellent example of how traditional techniques and modern sensibility can combine to produce a wine of both power and elegance.
Region: Australia (cool-climate, selected vineyards)
Variety: Syrah
Winemaking: Traditional basket press
Alcohol: ~13.5–14%
Drinking Window: Now – 2032
A refined, expressive Basket Press Syrah offering depth, texture and balance — ideal for lovers of modern, terroir-driven Australian Syrah.
