Grape: 100% Syrah - Blend of 2016 (47%), 2015 (44%), 2013 (5%) & 2012 (4%)
Region: Barossa Valley
Perfect with: Slow braised veal shanks, braised beef cheeks and parsnip mash or just on its own!
Ageing Potential: Drink now - 2027
Size: 750mL

Why You'll Love It?

This is the 6th rendition of the Sami-Odi Little Wine. Often referred to as the little brother of Fraser's vintage Syrah the 'Little Wine' is made from a blend of the declassified grapes from previous vintages, in this case, it is a blend of 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2016. Exclusively sourced from the Hoffmann’s ‘Dallwitz’ vineyard from vines planted in 1996, 1995, 1994, 1960 & the oldest vines planted prior to 1912.

Using simple, yet attentive biodynamic farming methods, Fraser places importance on organics and alignment with lunar rhythms. All cuts are made amid the wines descending moons and with the greatest of care, yearning to produce fine canes, balanced clusters and small berries with resilient skins. Shoot thinning, suckering and crop paring are all integral parts of the annual cycle with an ideal to farm as simply as possible, resulting in the harvest of healthy fruit early in the season that requires no additions or adjustments and little intervention. Fraser is also a fan of early picking for structure, purity/fruit brightness –“I like a lot of crunch.” Unlike most Ebeneezer red, Sami-Odi wines tend to be less "sweet" per se with more bones and less flesh due to the winemaking style.  

The grapes are hand-sorted, whole clusters are gently pigeaged by foot prior to basket pressing into Burgundian Pièces where they complete both their primary and malolactic fermentations. To encourage the retention of naturally occurring carbon dioxide (a by-product of fermentation and a natural preservative and antioxidant) the wines are not racked or clarified during their élevage and remain on their lees until they are assembled. 

They come in special port-like bottle shapes with unique label art. Fraser said he chose the shape because they are light and because he's always been a fan of "the Normandy bottles used for Calvados or Apple Brandy". 

Tastes Like?

The Little Wine is more approachable now than its slightly broody older brother. An abundance of dark fruits, violet on the nose, followed by hint of sweet spices, anise, clove and tobacco leaf. Juicy and full bodied with silky tannins and lovely structure. Intense flavours of blueberries, blackberries, dark cherries, black plums and blackcurrant. Nice long finish. Only 6155 bottles produced.