Seville Hill's 'Daphne' Tempranillo 2024 brings a distinctly Yarra Valley perspective to one of Spain's most recognisable red grape varieties. Rather than chasing weight or concentration, this is a wine shaped around dark fruit, gentle structure and the savoury qualities that make Tempranillo such an appealing companion at the table.
Seville Hill is a family-run vineyard and winery in Seville, in the Yarra Valley. Established in 1991 by John and Josie D'Aloisio on a former orchard property, the estate has explored varieties beyond the region's familiar Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Tempranillo forms part of that broader interest in European red grapes and their expression in the Yarra Valley.
The 2024 Daphne offers dark cherry and plum at its centre, accompanied by spice, liquorice and aniseed. A suggestion of dark chocolate adds depth without overwhelming the fruit. The overall impression is generous yet measured, with the wine's savoury character becoming increasingly apparent through the palate.
Tempranillo's naturally approachable structure is particularly well suited to this style. Gentle extraction aims to preserve the clarity of the fruit while drawing out subtle, dusty tannins rather than aggressive bitterness from the skins. The result is a medium-bodied red with enough substance for hearty food, but without the heaviness sometimes associated with more powerful Australian reds.
There's a lovely practicality to Daphne. It is the sort of wine that belongs alongside grilled lamb, smoky chorizo, roast pork or mushrooms cooked with herbs and olive oil. Its combination of dark fruit, spice and savoury restraint also makes it a natural choice for a relaxed dinner with friends, particularly when the food is as much a part of the occasion as the wine.
For anyone curious about Tempranillo beyond its Spanish heartland, this is an interesting Australian interpretation: recognisably varietal in its cherry-plum fruit and savoury finish, while reflecting Seville Hill's willingness to explore a broader range of grapes in the Yarra Valley.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Ruby red with youthful depth.
Nose
Dark cherry and ripe plum with liquorice, aniseed, warm spice and a suggestion of dark chocolate.
Palate
Medium-bodied and fruit-driven, with dark cherry and plum framed by gentle extraction, subtle dusty tannins and a savoury undertone.
Finish
Clean and savoury, with lingering dark fruit, spice and fine, understated tannins.
