  The New 2024 Standish Collection: Where Power, Poise & the Precision of Place Converge In the global conversation around Shiraz - stretching from the granite-hewn slopes of the Northern Rhône to the sun-drenched vineyards of South Australia - few names command attention with the same quiet authority as The Standish Wine Company. In the Barossa Valley, a region long synonymous with scale, richness, and sheer intensity, Standish has subtly but decisively reshaped expectations. Dan has reshaped Barossa’s natural power – refining, sculpting, and elevates it into something altogether more compelling. This is Shiraz reimagined. At the centre of this evolution stands Dan Standish, a sixth-generation Barossan whose approach is as introspective as it is exacting - supported every step of the way by his wife, Nicole, whose tireless work in the winery is integral to the estate’s success. Rarely seen beyond its confines, Dan operates with a singular focus that borders on obsession, driven by a philosophy rooted in restraint and the conviction that power without precision is merely noise. Where others might pursue density for its own sake, Standish seeks definition: clarity of fruit, integrity of structure, and a sense of movement across the palate. Tannins are not extracted, but carefully shaped. Oak is not imposed, but seamlessly absorbed. Every element is meticulously calibrated to serve the whole. The result is a body of work that feels both deeply rooted and strikingly modern - wines that carry the unmistakable signature of Barossa, yet speak in a more measured, articulate voice. Central to this articulation is place. Standish is not an exercise in regional blending, but a study in specificity. Each cuvée is often drawn from a single vineyard site - The Relic coming from an east-facing vineyard in Krondorf, and the Lamella from the ancient Shiraz vines (planted 1858) of the Stonegarden vineyard just near Springton in the Eden Valley. The remaining two wines are from the west. The Schubert Theorem hails from the Schubert vineyard on Roennfeldt Road, Marananga, and The Standish from the Laycock vineyard in the western parish of Greenock. And yet, for all their site specificity, what ultimately defines Standish is not geography, but texture. Across the range, there is an extraordinary tactile coherence - a signature that transcends vineyard and vintage. Time, of course, is the ultimate measure. Standish wines are built not just for immediate impact, but for evolution. Their structural integrity - rooted in balance rather than sheer extraction allows them to age with grace and purpose. In youth, they present as sculptural and energetic, their lines clearly defined. With time, those edges soften, revealing layers of savoury complexity: earth, spice, cured meat, mineral nuance. The fruit recedes slightly, making space for detail and depth. What remains constant is the sense of harmony. Few wines manage to be both compelling in their youth and profoundly rewarding with age. Standish achieves this balance with remarkable consistency. Placed within the broader context of Barossa’s great estates - Penfolds, Henschke, Torbreck - the position of The Standish Wine Company becomes even more intriguing. These are producers with history, scale, and global recognition. Standish, by contrast, operates with a far quieter profile. Production is limited. Distribution is selective. There is no reliance on legacy branding or grand narrative. And yet, in the glass, the comparison is not only valid - it is inevitable. Here are wines of comparable intensity, precision, quality, ageing potential, and offered at a price point that sits below their more established counterparts. It creates a subtle but significant tension between perception and reality. For those who discover Standish, the value is immediately apparent. For the wider market, there remains a sense that recognition is still catching up with achievement. In an era where global fine wine increasingly trends toward stylistic convergence - where technique and polish can sometimes blur distinction - The Standish Wine Company stands apart. It is neither traditionalist nor iconoclast, but something more nuanced: a producer engaged in quiet evolution. It honours the Barossa’s past while subtly reshaping its future. There is no attempt to emulate the Rhône, nor to distance itself from Australia. Instead, Standish defines its own space - one where power and restraint are not opposing forces, but complementary ones. Ultimately, The Standish Wine Company occupies a rare position in modern wine. It does not chase scale, yet over delivers on impact. It does not seek attention yet, it is one of the most anticipated releases each year. And, above all, a reminder that true luxury in wine is not defined by excess, but by precision - by the ability to do less, more perfectly… Dan Standish “This collection of five Shiraz cuvées from the 2024 Vintage have all been afforded the same “growing up” nurturing regimen or élevage. Over 542 days and nights voyaging through malolactic fermentation, melding with the lively lees, slowly reacting with the tiny ingress of oxygen to mellow and evolve in oak barrels. One notable difference is the concrete egg for the northeast section of the Schubert vineyard. From a dry growing season these 2024’s have indeed grown into detailed, complex and balanced wines of structured depth and lifted vibrancy. The usual suspects are on offer as well as a rebirth of one of our favourite wines – Andelmonde.”  The 2024 Growing Season The 2024 vintage across the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley stands as a compelling example of resilience rewarded. Marked by early-season frosts and a notably dry growing period, the season delivered highly variable yields, challenging growers and compressing the pace of ripening. Yet from these pressures emerged wines of remarkable precision and intensity. Vintners have aptly described the vintage as “short, sharp, and exceptional,” reflecting both the condensed growing cycle and the striking quality achieved. In Dan’s words “An excellent Barossa vintage. Low yielding and nice even ripening, we were able to pick every vineyard when it was suitably ready.” A quick note from Nicole Standish regarding the 2024 allocations: “We have now sold out of Andelmonde, but your allocation of 96 bottles is secure. The other wines are moving quickly, so it would be wise to firm up numbers soon to avoid any disappointment.” 2024 Andelmonde Please read the allocation measures per customer. Andelmonde has always occupied a unique position within the Standish portfolio - an outlier produced only when site and vintage align to meet Dan Standish’s exacting standards. Its absence since 2018 is not a matter of availability, but of philosophy. Dan has never pursued consistency for its own sake; each wine must earn its place. This discipline - an unwavering refusal to compromise identity for continuity is what defines the winery. As a result, Andelmonde remains one of the rarest and most elusive wines in the collection, released only when it is unequivocally right. Our allocation is exceptionally limited - just 96 bottles in total, a quantity we could easily place multiple times over with a single long-standing trade client. Inevitably, this necessitates strict allocation measures. In the interest of fairness to all clients, purchases are limited to a maximum of six bottles per customer, whether as a single case or as part of a mixed selection. Any orders exceeding this allocation will be cancelled and refunded.      Dan Standish “After purchasing this vineyard a few years back, Nicole and I have converted the vineyard in Bethany to organic farming, tended to the vines and reduced the yields. We are very excited to release this wine after a 6 years hiatus!” Stuart McCloskey, tasted 23 April 2026 “Andelmonde - what a rarity. We’ve not seen a release since 2018, which only heightens the sense of anticipation… and perhaps expectation too. A single vineyard Shiraz from Light Pass (the home of Standish), and an entirely different proposition to the other wines in the range. This is not a wine that reveals itself willingly. You must meet it halfway. Time and preparation are essential - patience, above all. I would strongly suggest a long decant (three to four hours) and serving in Zalto Burgundy or Bordeaux stemware. The perfume takes some coaxing - arguably the most reserved of the 2024 releases, yet undeniably beguiling. It slowly unfurls to reveal salted black plum and liquorice at its core, layered with black raspberry, macerated red berries and dark pastille fruits. There’s a savoury, saline edge that weaves through the aromatic profile, adding tension and intrigue. Fresh mint brings lift, while violet, rose petal and a suggestion of dried herbs provide a beautifully lifted floral register. Subtle spice from the oak - clove, star anise and a touch of cedar sit quietly in the background. The palate follows in a similar vein - measured, composed, yet increasingly expressive with air. Full-bodied, though it wears its weight lightly, carried by a fine line of acidity that gives the wine energy and direction. The fruit profile leans darker – Salted black plum, blackberry, black cherry, Dutch liquorice - yet remains fresh and precise, never heavy or overripe. There’s a compelling tactile quality here: tannins are firm, finely grained, almost chalky, providing a structured, architectural framework that feels both disciplined and refined. As the wine opens, layers of spice, mineral nuance and a gentle saline note begin to emerge, adding depth and complexity. The mid-palate broadens gradually, offering a slow, rolling expansion of flavour before tightening through a long, savoury, quietly persistent finish. A subtle bitterness - think cocoa nib and blood orange adds further sophistication and grip. Super long in flavour and texture… Everything lasts for minutes. What sets Andelmonde apart is its restraint -almost the polar opposite of the rest of the collection. It doesn’t seek to impress immediately; instead, it rewards those willing to engage. Thought-provoking, intellectual and beautifully composed. This is a wine you must work at - but the rewards are considerable. Ideally, this needs a decade and will cellar for 30+ years. I plan to spend 24 hours with this and will revisit my thoughts after full aeration. The more time you spend with it, the more it reveals… layers quietly unfolding, complexity building in whispers rather than declarations. Back to you in a week or two with an update…”  SOLD OUT     “This may well be the vintage that changes everything for me. The best Lamella I have sampled to date.” Stuart McCloskey, Tasted 22 April 2026 “I always approach Lamella with a touch of scepticism - yet it has a habit of disarming me completely. With the 2024, I suspect many will share that same moment of quiet astonishment. By God - the colour is magnificent, a work of art in itself. The new Farrow & Ball shade for 2026… From the first swirl, the bouquet is intoxicating, heady, expansive, and utterly captivating. Very serious and commanding. A kaleidoscope of red and blue fruits - fresh raspberry, black cherry, plum and mulberry unfold into layers of cherry confit, raspberry liqueur, and the sweetest spice. Floral tones arrive in waves from the deepest iris, violet, to potpourri, and all lifted by hints of orange peel and a beautifully exotic edge. Beneath, a more serious undercurrent reveals itself - graphite, coal, wet stone and that unmistakable nori, marine signature. The ancient vines of Stonegarden (dating back to 1858) present themselves clearly; the layers of minerality are unmissable. There’s even a flicker of sage and meadow herbs. This is wildly complex, yet completely seamless… intoxicating doesn’t quite do it justice. The palate is where Lamella earns its reputation. Creamy, velvety, almost indulgent in texture, yet held perfectly in check. A rolling swell of pure, sweet fruit coats the palate - raspberry, plum, blue fruits are framed by silky, suede-like tannins that provide both structure and finesse. The influence of whole bunch fermentation brings spice, energy and a beautiful savoury lift, while a mineral, granitic cadence runs through the core, keeping everything precise and focused. Despite the intensity, there is no struggle - everything exists in perfect harmony. It is powerful, yes, but never domineering… Instead, it seduces. What strikes me most is the balance between opulence and control. This is plush (undeniably) but it never tips into excess. The fruit quality is simply extraordinary, doing all the talking, supported by detail, poise and a sense of quiet confidence. Profound and deeply moving, the 2024 Lamella is both an immediate pleasure and a wine built for the ages. Ten to fifteen years will reveal further layers of complexity, though it is already dangerously compelling. There is a magnetic quality here - one that draws you back, glass after glass. I’ll admit it… this may well be the vintage that changes everything for me. The best Lamella I have sampled to date.”  £249.00 per case (3x75cl - duty paid and delivered) £375.00 per case (6x75cl - In Bond)     “I do not add numbers to my tasting notes. That said… this truly deserves 100 points, every day of the week.” Stuart McCloskey, Tasted 22 April 2026 “I always find myself asking the same question with Schubert Theorem - what sense would I miss the most, smell or taste? With the 2024, it feels almost impossible to choose. The bouquet is utterly riveting - bottomless, brooding, and one of the purest expressions of Australian Shiraz imaginable. Layers of sweet, wild red and black fruits - plum, black cherry, blueberry and blackberry unfurl alongside crème de mûre, dark pastille fruits, bitter chocolate and a gentle whisper of coffee bean. The unmistakable marine signatures of iodine, nori and sea spray meld seamlessly with cooling graphite, violet, rose petal and iris. Bay leaf and liquorice add further intrigue. It is complex, certainly, but more importantly, it feels complete… nothing out of place. The palate is where everything aligns. Silken, inky and beautifully pure - she glides rather than strides, delivering a rolling swell of sweet fruit wrapped in ribbons of fine, powdery tannins. There is impressive density here, yet it is carried with such grace it feels almost weightless. The influence of whole bunch and concrete egg maturation brings spice, sinew, and a wonderful sense of finesse, while a saline thread and vibrant acidity cut through the richness, providing precision and energy. It’s kinetic, composed, and effortlessly harmonious. What I admire most is the quality of fruit - it does all the talking. This is not a wine chasing power, though it has it in abundance. Instead, it leans into purity, detail and quiet confidence. The concentration speaks of great Barossa Shiraz, yet the poise and elegance feel almost classical - Burgundy meeting Margaux in spirit yet unmistakably rooted in its ancient terroir. Profound, composed and deeply moving, the 2024 Schubert Theorem is both immediately captivating and built for the long haul. This is not a wine to rush. Ten to fifteen years will reveal its full story, though even now it offers something deeply compelling. There is simply no other wine like Schubert Theorem. Each vintage feels like a moment - fleeting, extraordinary - and I, for one, feel incredibly fortunate to bear witness ahead of next month’s global launch. I do not add numbers to my tasting notes. That said… this truly deserves 100 points, every day of the week.”  £249.00 per case (3x75cl - duty paid and delivered) £375.00 per case (6x75cl - In Bond) The 2024 vintage across the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley stands as a compelling example of resilience rewarded. Marked by early-season frosts and a notably dry growing period, the season delivered highly variable yields, challenging growers and compressing the pace of ripening. Yet from these pressures emerged wines of remarkable precision and intensity. Vintners have aptly described the vintage as “short, sharp, and exceptional,” reflecting both the condensed growing cycle and the striking quality achieved.     “I struggle to think of another Australian winemaker producing wines of such mesmeric detail and intrigue. These are truly special.” Stuart McCloskey, tasted 24 April 2026 “Inky to the core with a deep violet rim, the wine clings to the glass with an almost oil-like sheen – a visual cue to its scale and intent. The bouquet is quite simply bottomless – profoundly deep and endlessly unfurling (near impossible to fully articulate). Dark fruits arrive in layered register – mulberry, blackberry, crème de mûre and damson before the wine shifts and reveals ever more complexity. Dried florals, coconut, iris and liquorice emerge, followed by mint, warming spice and a distinctly cool, ferrous edge. A faint saline whisper lingers, lifting and refining the whole. Each return to the glass brings new detail. This is not a static aromatic profile, but a constantly evolving, almost hypnotic experience. I struggle to think of another Australian winemaker producing wines of such mesmeric detail and intrigue. These are truly special. The palate is commanding yet under absolute control. There is immense concentration, but it builds slowly and deliberately rather than arriving in a rush. Black fruits form the core, framed by savoury nuances of olive tapenade, graphite, liquorice root and a subtle herbal inflection. The tannins are abundant yet exquisitely judged – fanning out like the finest silk across the palate, providing both structure and composure against the wine’s saturated intensity. What sets this apart is the tension - power meets polish, weight meets cadence. The texture is plush and flowing, almost creamy in its seamlessness, yet anchored by a cooling mineral drive and savoury depth that keeps everything in check. The finish is extraordinary – long, resonant and seemingly endless, slowly dissolving into an abyss of dark fruit, spice and mineral nuance. A profoundly complete Shiraz of immense scale and detail. This sits comfortably among Australia’s elite and is built for the long haul. Approachable with extended aeration, but patience will be richly rewarded over decades. Quite possibly a step beyond even the remarkable Schubert Theorem – which, frankly, is saying something.”  £249.00 per case (3x75cl - duty paid and delivered) £375.00 per case (6x75cl - In Bond)     “This is not simply a wine of power - it is about detail, movement and clarity... A thrilling, expressive wine - something very special… and unmistakably Relic.” Stuart McCloskey, tasted 23 April 2026 “Boom - cracked black pepper is the first thing to hit your senses. Immediate, explosive, and utterly captivating - I wasn’t expecting such a striking, singular fragrance. It sets the tone for what follows: a wine of towering scale, energy, spice and tension… The bouquet is initially reticent yet deeply addictive, and like Andelmonde, it needs time to emerge from its slumber. A chasm of iron ore, an underwater forest of sea kelp, sea salt and iodine come rushing through, alongside the blackest liquorice imaginable and a twist of bergamot. There’s a smoked, meaty aspect woven into the core. Dried meadow flowers, violet and rose (courtesy of the Viognier) bring aromatic lift and a certain sensuality. With further aeration, more savoury complexities emerge - olive tapenade, graphite and layers of charcuterie. The aromatic intricacy and depth here are off the scale. Very few possess the skill to deliver this level of detail. The palate is equally entrancing. It is so rare to encounter a wine of this scale that delivers such equilibrium - the perfect interplay between power and finesse. The fruit is concentrated yet precise, flowing effortlessly across the palate to the tune of dark berries, salted plum and expensive, exotic spice. The flavours run long and deep - saturating, expansive and utterly compelling. Glass-staining in presence. Tannins are firm, providing structure without hardness, while a pepper-laced energy courses through the wine, carried by vibrant acidity and that signature whole-bunch spice. What stands out most is the balance. This is not simply a wine of power - it is about detail, movement and clarity. The Viognier component works quietly in the background, enhancing texture and aromatic complexity without ever dominating. The finish is ridiculously long, savoury and gently spiced, tapering with a mineral edge and a lingering echo of pepper and dark fruit. A thrilling, expressive wine - something very special… and unmistakably Relic.”  £249.00 per case (3x75cl - duty paid and delivered) £375.00 per case (6x75cl - In Bond)   Contains one 75cl bottle of each: 2024 Standish The Standish £415.00 per case (5x75cl - duty paid and delivered) Shipping & Delivery We anticipate shipping the collection in July 2026, with an estimated arrival into the UK in October. More precise timings will be confirmed closer to departure. Delivery: Our planned ETA into the UK is September/Early October 2026. Home deliveries will take place within a few weeks of arrival. There is no need to chase for delivery updates as we will keep all customers informed in our regular emails. Storage: Please select the 'Pre-order In Bond' option (this price is exclusive of UK duty and VAT). We will arrange all transfers once the wines are landed. Again, we will make contact with you all… If you wish to store your 2024 Standish wines within our Customer Reserves, please ensure that you log into your account prior to checking out. Please avoid checking out as a guest. Please select the 'Customer Cellar' option when checking out. Home Delivery: Please select the 'Home Delivery' option (this price includes duty and VAT). We will provide free home delivery for all orders placed during this pre-arrival campaign.  |
