Mahmood Fazal Releases Second Vintage Shiraz Inspired by Spanish Wine, Persian Poetry, and Ancestral Roots

Victorian winemaker Mahmood Fazal has unveiled his second vintage of Kuhn Shiraz, a wine that draws inspiration from a Spanish cult label, the verses of Persian poets, and the land of his forefathers. The release comes one year after Fazal's debut vintage, marking another milestone in his quest to create a wine that reflects his unique background and passions.

Fazal's earliest memories of wine trace back to watching his uncles sip cask red at family gatherings in Melbourne's southeastern suburbs. As a young man, he struggled with identity challenges and found himself caught up in gangs and violence. However, it was through art, literature, and poetry that Fazal found comfort and a new path forward, eventually leading him to pursue a career in journalism.

The inspiration for Kuhn Shiraz stems from Fazal's deep fascination with Persian poetry, particularly the works of Omar Khayyam, and a profound connection he experienced between wine and place during a visit to Spain. With the guidance of winemaker Josh Cooper and others, Fazal set out to craft a wine that pays homage to his roots and the rich history of the shiraz grape.

The second vintage of Kuhn Shiraz features imagery, a name, and a quote from Sufi poet Rumi that encapsulate Fazal's background and passions. The wine serves as a tribute to the shiraz grape, which was introduced to Australia by James Busby in the 1830s, and Fazal's desire to embrace the 'Orientalist myth-making' surrounding the grape's origins.

Why this matters: Fazal's journey from a troubled youth to a winemaker crafting vintages inspired by his ancestral roots and literary passions highlights the transformative power of art and the diverse influences shaping Australia's wine industry. His story resonates with those seeking to find their identity and purpose through creative pursuits and cultural connections.

Reflecting on the release of his second vintage, Fazal expressed gratitude for the support and guidance he has received along the way. "This wine is a testament to the power of poetry, the allure of place, and the importance of embracing one's roots," he said. "I hope it inspires others to find comfort and purpose in the things that speak to their soul."

Key Takeaways

• Victorian winemaker Mahmood Fazal launched his second vintage of Kuhn Shiraz.
• Fazal's wine draws inspiration from Spanish cult labels, Persian poetry, and his heritage.
• Fazal's journey from troubled youth to winemaker reflects the power of art and identity.
• Kuhn Shiraz pays homage to the shiraz grape's history in Australia and Fazal's roots.
• Fazal's story resonates with those seeking purpose through creative and cultural connections.