Leefield Station Stockman Syrah

It’s a fully operational vineyard farm located in Marlborough’s Waihopai Valley, it’s one of the oldest stations in Marlborough dating back to the 1840s and now owned by superstar winemaker Brent Marris. It’s Leefield Station and it’s Brent’s pride and joy.

Brent’s the guy behind The Ned wine label and way back in the day he started Wither Hills. He sure as hell knows how to make wine and he’s probably not short of a bit of coin. Back in 2012 he splashed out to buy this 2,200 hectare station which now hosts the annual Blenheim bull sale!

This is part of the Expressions of Leefield range – very limited release wines, small parcels of fruit from special sites. This is the Leefield Station Stockman Syrah 2023 which for the second vintage running won Gold at the International Wine Challenge in London. The judges said “Wild cherry and crunchy red fruits. Subtle spice and austere chalky tannins, but elegantly built.”

It also scored 90/100 with Master of Wine Jane Skilton for The Real Review. Jane said “Polished and ripe with an appealing aroma of damson, star anise and blackcurrant. Generously fruited on the palate with a fine dusting of tannins in support. Medium-bodied and already approachable though would continue to develop positively over the next two to three years.”

Meanwhile Brent describes it as “This cool climate Syrah has fruity aromas of blackberries accompanied by subtle vanilla notes.”

This is a great food wine. Our hot tip is to pair it with your best rib-eye steak or grilled lamb.