Masterclass – From Shiraz to Syrah

Big. Bold. Brawny. Think you know shiraz? Not so fast. These are some of the most exciting wines being made in South Australia and beyond: supple styles with fascinating nuance. Wine professional Erin Larkin is leading this masterclass alongside winemakers Riley Harrison and Adam Wadewitz.

Try local releases from Ngeringa and Alkinga alongside international stars like Gaillard and Guigal, exploring the evolution of shiraz and syrah – and their unique personalities. Larkin, whose specialties include judging, private cellar curation and writing for the likes of Halliday Wine Companion and Robert Parker Wine Advocate, will set the scene.

Harrison, a Young Gun of Wine finalist for the past three years, took a slow and steady approach to development of his eponymous label. Its mission: producing coveted wines with great perfume, mouthfeel and the ability to transport. Grapes are sourced from a range of SA sites, with Murdoch Hill supplying the grapes Harrison uses to make his Black Hound syrah and Kookaburra cabernet sauvignon-shiraz.

The hugely accomplished Wadewitz is joint chief executive and chief winemaker at Shaw + Smith, and a partner in the MMAD label based in Blewitt Springs. Stints working worldwide have honed his stills, recognised with accolades including joint dux of the Len Evans tutorial.