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.

This is, in many respects, the perfect Grampians shiraz/syrah. It presents a body of well-ripened fruit and feels refreshing. It's laced with black pepper and brings assorted meaty, smoky, rust-like nuances to the table. There's an intriguing 'stone' character to the tannin and a genuine flourish to the finish. This is yet more evidence of the excellence of this producer. Drink to: 2033; Date Tasted: June 2024; Alcohol: 13.5%; Rating: 95 Points & Special Value Star; James Halliday Wine Companion