The Story Wines was established in 2004 by Rory Lane and is a small independent winery sourcing fruit from vineyards in the Grampians, Henty and Whitlands regions of Victoria and turn them into wine. Each vintage there is a new story to tell; of plenty or pain, frenzied action and sumptuousness, the hard beauty of the land and its engaging subjects – those vineyards, people, small budgets and big emotions, all boiled down and bottled and drunk with gusto.

Why syrah and not shiraz? Not sure, but it might be the higher level of peppery spice that brings with it a touch of cooler-climate style Grampians shiraz, layered between ripe black fruits, wild herbs, bay leaf, allspice and warm earthy notes. Either way, it's a lovely example of what the region does with shiraz and it's ready to seduce right now. Drink to: 2033; Date Tasted: January 2025; Alcohol: 13.5%; Rating: 94 Points & Special Value Star; James Halliday Wine Companion