Product Description:
Cool-climate Shiraz with Pinot-like precision and grace.
By Farr Shiraz 2023 is a masterclass in restraint and structure, grown on the original 1994 north-facing vineyard in Bannockburn’s red volcanic soil over limestone. This is Geelong Shiraz that behaves like no other—spicy, mineral, and seductively savoury, with just enough flesh to soften its edges.
Each vintage sees careful adjustments in the cellar: 20% whole bunch, a splash of co-fermented Viognier (2–4%), and 18 months in French oak (20% new). The result is a wine of layered spice and dark fruit, with remarkable length and poise. It begins soft and plush with black cherry, olive tapenade and dark chocolate, but quickly tightens into fine-grained tannins and savoury grip.
This isn’t a blockbuster. It’s something much harder to pull off—pure, perfumed, and full of tension.
Maker
The Real Review awarded By Farr, Winery of the Year 2022, a preeminent winery in the Geelong region, its vineyards and winery located at Bannockburn in the Moorabool Valley just outside Geelong city.
The Farr Family established the By Farr brand in 1994, on a north-facing slope in the township of Bannockburn, Moorabool Valley. The original wines included Chardonnay by Farr, Viognier by Farr, Shiraz by Farr, and Pinot Noir by Farr, now known as Sangreal by Farr. With the help of Cassie and Nick, the vineyards have expanded to neighbouring properties, resulting in greater expression of the single-site wines. The wines of By Farr are renowned for their complexity, layered structure and undeniable length, making them highly regarded by both consumers and critics worldwide. The Farr estate is located in the Moorabool Valley, between Geelong and Ballarat, 100km southwest of Melbourne. Gary and Robyn Farr purchased the original property in 1994, followed by a second section in 1998, which had been untouched for almost 40 years. The final piece of the puzzle, linking the two blocks of land, was purchased by Nick and Cassie Farr in 2011, totaling 130 acres. Nick and Gary Farr each have their own winemaking style, which has resulted in their respective lines - By Farr by Gary and Farr Rising by Nick - receiving critical acclaim both in Australia and overseas.
Nick Farr was Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine's Winemaker of the Year in 2020, but he is always quick to emphasise that By Farr is a family affair and the wines are a team effort. Indeed, Gary Farr won the same award back in 2001. It's the only two-generation winning combination. But the Farrs shrink from the idea that the winemaker is some kind of hero: it's the grape and the land that are important - the wines are a true testament to this.
Philosophy
At By Farr, the philosophy is simple: respect for the land, the vine, and the fruit. This approach is grounded in a commitment to sustainable, organic farming practices, as well as hands-off winemaking that lets the terroir speak for itself. The Farr family believes that a great wine starts in the vineyard, with meticulous attention to detail paid to every aspect of vineyard management, from canopy care to harvest timing. Winemaking follows a minimalist approach, with native yeast fermentation, careful barrel selection, and the avoidance of fining and filtration, allowing each wine to evolve naturally and express its true character. This approach has resulted in wines that are elegant, structured, and complex, capturing the unique essence of the Geelong region.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Deep and spicy
Black cherry, pepper, black olive and cocoa, with subtle floral lift from Viognier.
PALATE
– Textured and savoury
Dark plum and dense earth give way to spice and fine-boned tannins.
FINISH
– Long and structured
Mineral, ironstone and tannin-driven, tapering with pepper and warmth.
Finer Details:
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz, Viognier
Country - Australia
Region - Geelong, Victoria
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%
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