Topic
#23
24 posts tagged with this topic. RSS feed.
- news
Gilberts Reserve Shiraz 2023
Made for long, contemplative nights by the fire, check this Gilberts Reserve Shiraz. Dark chocolate torte, charred steak, charcoal and cracked black pepper set a deep savoury tone, while the medium to full-bodied palate carries impressive authority. The fruit has a generous, almost stewed character, though it doesn't feel tired or overdone. Instead, it reinforces the wine's richness and warmth. An array of exotic spices threads confidently through the palate, adding intrigue and complexity. Of note, it's the length, drive and persistence that leave the biggest impression, with those flavours refusing to let go long on a persistent finish. A very tidy Shiraz that embraces generosity without losing its composure, pour a glass, kick back and settle into the evening one sip at a time. 92/100 Region: Mount Barker RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views40-502390-94ptsmount-barkershiraz - news
Varney Wines GSM 2023
More herbal than the juicy, fruit-driven style this Varney GSM has become known for, this 2023 slides back a notch or two from those that have come before. It opens with raspberries and blackberries before menthol, dried herbs and a subtle hint of tomato paste take the lead. Chocolate, stripped bark and earthy notes build further complexity, while a blanket of spice settles comfortably over the finish. It's balanced and remains an enjoyable drink, offering plenty of savoury character and interest. That said, it doesn't quite capture the energy, generosity or wow factor of previous releases. In all, it's a solid GSM. 92/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $35 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views30-402390-94ptsblendsgrenachemataro - news
3 Rings Shiraz 2023
I've now reviewed this 2023 Shiraz three times in the past 18 months. My first tasting was shortly after bottling, then again ten months later. Those extra months in bottle made a noticeable difference. Curiously, I tasted this wine again this time, wrote up my notes and then referred to my previous reviews. Of note, my thoughts are much the same as they were the last time I tasted it, back in December. Abundant dark fruits lead the way, joined by Christmas cake and raisins dipped in dark chocolate. Cedar mingles with black pepper and a medley of earthy, woodsy spices. The mid-palate is saturated with fruit, yet remains taut and firmly structured. All up, it's good gear and an easy go-to for a night of binge-watching your favourite series. 89/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $19 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views15-202385-89ptsbarossashiraz - news
Higher Plane Two to Tango Cabernet Malbec 2023
Cabernet Malbec can often veer toward the traditional, but this release from Higher Plane feels like a more modern and contemporary take on the blend - winning! Expressive aromas of choc mint and squishy blackberries leap from the glass. The palate follows with plenty of flavour, think blackberry jubes while charred steak characters add a savoury edge and a touch of swagger. There's good flex here too, with the fruit carrying enough confidence to sit front and centre without overwhelming the wine's shape and flow. Firm tannins make their presence known early, though a juicy pulse running through the core keeps the wine engaging. The finish tightens up, turning puckering and drying as the tannins close ranks. It’s a wine that balances generosity with structure very well. Yes! 92/100 Region: Margaret River RRP: $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views30-402390-94ptscabernet-francmalbecmargaret-river - news
Head Wines Heart and Home Shiraz 2023
A blend drawn from four Barossa vineyards, this Head Wines Heart & Home Shiraz carries plenty of regional character. A 9% splash of Grenache works its magic too, bringing lift, brightness and a touch of prettiness to the wine's darker core. Blackberries and dark plums lead the charge, supported by notes of chocolate-dipped raspberries that add both richness and appeal. Dried herbs and licorice bullets contribute a savoury thread, giving the wine more dimension than a simple fruit bomb. What impresses most is the balance. There’s flex and muscle here, but little of the heft and bulk that can sometimes accompany Barossa Shiraz. The fruit is generous, the structure is respectable, and the whole package moves with ease and confidence across the palate. This is the sort of wine that delivers exactly what you want in equal doses: think flavour, balance and drinkability. Nicely done and great drinking for the asking price. 92/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $25 Source: S
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views20-302390-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
Usher Tinkler Tinkemans Shiraz 2023
Off the back of the Royal Queensland Wine Show, I was known for some of my interesting (and perhaps entertaining) tasting notes. A wine of detail and complexity, this Usher Tinkler Shiraz offers plenty of interest to explore. What I see here is what I experienced in some trendy, whole bunch wines that I termed Fitzroy piss. You know the type. They're the wines that those uber-cool bars and restaurants in Melbourne's Fitzroy and Brunswick would eat up, deluxe. It's the use of whole bunches that makes the difference. This is all savoury, meaty and utterly smashable. Baked cherries and plum strudel, pan juices, cured meats, it's a wine with character and presence. But that presence doesn't steal the spotlight, it causes you to lean in and discuss. It brings curiosity with a hint of swagger and charm. Torn jeans, unshaven yet moving with grace to its own beat. That's this Shiraz. Mind you, light the fire and embrace the cool of night with the added bonus of some steaks sizzling over golden
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views50-1502390-94ptshunter-valleyshiraz - news
Ballandean Estate Saperavi 2023
What makes Saperavi unique is its red flesh. One of the first to plant the variety in Australia (2008), Ballandean Estate continues to be a high performer. Black plums, blackberries and squishy blueberries lead the charge, delivering plenty of flavour and a more densely packed expression than recent vintages. There’s power here, no question, but some of the charm that has elevated this Saperavi in years gone by feels reserved. The lifted notes of dried purple flowers and violets that have often defined the wine are notably subdued. In their place sits a savoury edge of meatiness and pan juices, wrapped around a core of dark fruit. A streak of granite-like minerality keeps things honest, providing shape and direction through the palate. The tannins close dusty and furry, bringing grip and structure that suggest this will continue to evolve with bottle age. It remains a thoroughly enjoyable drink, but having seen this wine reach some lofty heights before, this release sits a touch
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views50-1502390-94ptsgranite-beltsaperavi - news
Grant Nash Lunch GSM 2023
Affectionately called the Lunch Wine, this GSM from Grant Nash Wines is a delicious yin and yang balance of fruit and savoury delight. Dark fruit and raspberry rope notes get things moving up front, with layers of cured meats, pan juices, stripped bark and meat rub spices adding complexity and depth. The palate walks with impressive poise and a moreish length that urges another sip. Equally comfortable alongside a charcuterie board or plate of barbecued meats, this is a GSM that delivers flavour, texture and drinkability in equal doses. Big love. Go here. 93/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views40-502390-94ptsblendsgrenachegsm - news
Usher Tinkler Reserve Shiraz 2023
Leading with a savoury and brooding aroma profile, be sure to give this Usher Tinkler Reserve Shiraz a decant before serving. Ground coffee and mocha aromas set the tone with dark berries, ripe plums and the flicker of crunchy red apples. A fine ribbon of dark chocolate moves and sways throughout adding another level of detail. Drying, there is an unmissable rustic presence that has me hooked. Layers of woodsy spices, meat rub spices and a smoky edge build further detail to peel back. That smoky character brings a hock and char note and all I can think of from this point is a night by the fire pit with large steaks sizzling over golden coals. That cool country air, the rustic vibes and the glow of the coals would bring all these elements together in a neat power play. Great stuff. 92/100 Region: Hunter Valley RRP: $75 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views50-1502390-94ptshunter-valleyshiraz - news
Turkey Flat Shiraz 2023
A thrilling Shiraz from Turkey Flat, this 2023 tenses up and keeps all of its secrets close. Give it a moment and it slowly drops its guard. Plummy fruit is joined by blackberries and concentrated mulberries. Licks of fruit sweetness dial up the interest as firm spices add a clenched fist presence. Interestingly, it possesses that tough guy braun that draws intrigue and forces you to lean in closer, but its softer side whispers beauty and elegance. Fruit bun spices pin themselves to a persistent and moreish finish. Give it some more bottle age to settle and this little gem will continue to repay the faith. 94/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $55 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)25 views50-1502390-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
Camino Wine Co Marananga Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Broad shouldered and generous, this Barossa Cabernet from Camino Wine Co possesses an impressive suppleness that carries its weight. Sourced from 80-100 year old vines in Marananga on the district's western ridge, this sees American oak (100% new) for 19 months. Packed with a festive table of delight, think Christmas cake richness wrapped around black fruit, threads of licorice and a slice of caramel slice for good measure. Tucking in behind lay an array of dried herbs that add a neat, savoury edge. Drying to close, the tannins are firm, offering a window to a long future. If big reds with a charming plushness spin your wheels, you'll be loving this offering. 94/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $120 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)33 views50-1502390-94ptsbarossacabernet-sauvignon - news
Camino Wine Co Paradigm Vineayard Shiraz 2023
If you like big, old school style Barossa Shiraz, wander over this way and check out the Camino Wine Co Paradigm Vineyard 2024. To give some insight, the 80-100 year old vines are for this wine are grown right beside the Torbrek Laird vineyard. Handpicked and destemmed, it was pumped over twice daily before being pressed to American oak for 19 months. The use of 100% American oak is telling, too. There is a lot of it, and the cedar, coconut and caramel notes are abundant. There is a neat touch of Coconut Rough which I thought elevated things just that bit more. The fruit is dense and muscular with dark chocolate and rum 'n' raisin riding on its coattails. Earthy, woodsy and exotic spices mingle before the carpet is rolled out for the big, voluptuous tannins. There is no mistaking the power, and I'd recommend a good decant if it were to be enjoyed now. Rest assured, you can sit on this comfortably for 15 years+. It's worth noting, mind you, the cork was firm, and although not see
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)31 views50-1502390-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
St John's Road Reserve Blood & Courage Shiraz 2023
Possessing more polish than its little sibling , this St John's Road Reserve Blood & Courage Shiraz is commendable and will find its people. Curiously, there is little detail about the vine age or calibre of the vineyard, so the $90 price point is a hard sell. From what I've seen, although it is a good enough wine, it rests uncomfortably (in my opinion) with those big dollars beside its name. I can only review what details I have at hand and what's in the glass, so here goes... Firm with a respectable length, dark plums and black cherries drive the fruit profile. Cured meats, charcoal and earthy vibes are partnered by woodsy and barbecue rub spices. Dusty, chewy tannins bring it home and elevate the interest factor. Drinking well over a couple of days, I'd suggest decanting now, but this will age comfortably for a decade+ 93/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $90 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedI
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views50-15023barossashiraz - news
Turkey Flat Grenache 2023
When you think of Barossa Valley Grenache, Turkey Flat is never far away from the conversation. What a joy it was to take a look at this 2023 and the brand new 2024 alongside one another. Raspberries, strawberries, red currants, orange peel and apricot kernel light up the stage with a hint of cola for good measure. A flicker of eucalyptus piques my interest, but that can't be seen on day two when this nestles into a neat groove. It's a wine with more structure and body compared to the pretty, silky, elegant thing that is the 2024 . Fine tannins are pliable with the length highlighted by fruit bun spices. Grenache lovers who appreciate a little more oomph, this is right in your wheelhouse. 94/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views40-502390-94ptsbarossagrenache - news
St John's Road Blood & Courage Shiraz 2023
In the slot, this St John's Road Blood & Courage Shiraz is a reliable expression of Barossa Shiraz that won't blow you away, but will present a solid argument. It tastes of plums, dark cherries and blackberries with a charcoal cameo. Mulberries step up once it sees some more air. I'm unsure where the fruit is sourced from, be it a single site or multiple, but the quality is evident. Roasted meats carve a course through the mid-palate with fine, brickdust tannins adding a moreish finish that dries out slowly. It's nicely done. 92/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $28 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views20-302390-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Launching with an expressive bouquet of dark fruits, led by blackberries and blackcurrants, this Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Cabernet Sauvignon offers a rich and inviting aromatic profile. Add savoury delight via grilled capsicum and green olives, it's a wine with a touch of rustic charm. Black tea, sage and dried herbs, plus some earthiness, add further intrigue. Firm, dusty tannins frame a palate with a drying, textural presence. In all, it's a neatly balanced and composed wine that provides respectable potential for medium-term aging. All this for a most reasonable $25RRP. It's a big tick from me. 92/100 Region: Clare Valley RRP: $25 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views20-302390-94ptscabernet-sauvignonclare-valley - news
Sunnyhurst Winery Cabernet Merlot 2023
An intriguing Cabernet Merlot blend from Blackwood Valley producer Sunnyhurst Winery, a splash of Petit Verdot works its way into the mix (50/40/10). Curiously, the website states 20% Petit Verdot, but the label says 10%... Each component was fermented separately and matured for 15 months in French oak before blending. On the nose, the aromas are tightly wound, pointing to a long future ahead. With air, it reveals a core of black fruits and berries and is layered with savoury notes of black olive, cloves and a touch of dark chocolate. The palate is firm and dry with assertive tannins that take charge for now, but these should settle with time. The concentrated fruit profile echoes the aromas. Those notes of spice and chocolate add depth and intrigue. The tension calls for time in the decanter if it were to be enjoyed now, but some more bottle age will see things unfurl and harmonise. 91/100 Region: Blackwood Valley RRP: $32 Source: Sample Winery Website S
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views30-402390-94ptsblackwood-valleyblendscabernet-sauvignon - news
St Johns Wine Tweed River Shiraz 2023
A super buy for 20 bucks, this St Johns Wine Tweed River Shiraz struts with a cool climate-like Shiraz swagger. Brooding and tightly wound on first pour, it opens with an array of dark fruits. Think blackberries, dark cherries and plums that gradually reveal a gentle cola lift with some air. The palate shifts confidently into savoury territory, where notes of meat jus and cured meats add depth and intrigue. Layers of dark chocolate and finely handled oak frame the fruit, while a subtle granite-like minerality lends precision. A dusting of black pepper spice carries through the finish, enhancing the wine’s complexity. Structurally, it is firm and composed, with tightly knit tannins and a line of persistent acidity that keeps the profile fresh and energetic. Still youthful, it has the balance and concentration to evolve gracefully, rewarding cellaring over the next 5 to 8 years. A big tick from me. 91/100 Region: Blackwood Valley RRP: $20 Source: Sample Winery We
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views15-202390-94ptsbargainblackwood-valleyshiraz - news
Beulah Chardonnay 2023
If a rich, oak-driven style of Chardonnay is your thing, head on over this way. Beulah Wines hail from Western Australia's Blackwood Valley, just inland from Margaret River. Dehydrated peach, peaches and cream, this is definitely on the yellow fruit spectrum. Lemon curd gets amongst the action with cashews and gingerbread adding some savoury interest. Warming and mouthfilling, woodsy spices linger long on a persistent finish. Of note, the acidity creeps up high on the palate and refuses to loosen its grip. It feels quite muscular and aggressive to close, perhaps some more bottle age will do the trick? 88/100 Region: Blackwood Valley RRP: $28 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views20-302385-89ptsblackwood-valleychardonnay - news
Beulah Wines Shiraz 2023
Singing on the second and third day of tasting, this Blackwood Valley Shiraz from Beulah Wines certainly embraced the opportunity to take a breath and unfurl slowly. Initially quite tense, generous handfuls of plums and blue fruits released their grip. Pan juices, meat rub spices, fruit bun spices and black pepper peel off with ease. It's a wine with a long future ahead, and one I'd love to see in another 5-8 years. Dark chocolate and firm, tightly woven tannins make the last call and cling to a sustained finish. Give it a good decant to drink now or hold with confidence that reward will come. Nicely done and good going for $28. 91/100 Region: Blackwood Valley RRP: $28 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)34 views2390-94ptsblackwood-valleyshiraz - news
Bridgetown Winery Barbera 2023
Tasted alongside another Barbera, this Bridgetown release speaks of a heavy oak impact from the first whiff, which detracts from the fruit that does its best to sing. From the Blackwood Valley, just inland from the famed Margaret River region, it is awash with red cherries and blackberry leaf, only to have them drowned out by the oak. The oak brings with it those ski lodge cedar scents which flow through to the palate. Twigs, caramel, Mars bar nuances and woodsy spices gang up and arrest the attention from the fruit. Pare back the oak and unleash the fruit, I say. 87/100 Region: Blackwood Valley RRP: $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views30-402385-89ptsbarberablackwood-valley - news
First Drop Wines Moderno Barbera 2023
Bright and touch lighter in the glass than some Barberas I've tasted of late, this release from First Drop Wines pushes its case for a cool evening with a hearty meal. Sourced from the Adelaide Hills, juicy red cherries, plums and energetic blackberries build a respectable fruit profile. Tilled earth, olive tapenade, and tree bark add savoury nuances with a fine mist of soft spices coating the palate. Red apple skin rushes late with crunchy red apple acidity on close. Tense tannins cling to a long finish and tease with a moreish factor. A most enjoyable take on this Piedmont delight. 92/100 Region: Adelaide Hills RRP: $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)23 views30-402390-94ptsadelaide-hillsbarbera - news
Travellers Shiraz Viognier 2023
Wonderfully medium-bodied, this Travellers Shiraz Viognier is a wine of fluency, lacy shape and severe approachability. Sourced from Queensland's Granite Belt region, the fruit was grown at Ballandean Estate. The Shiraz was partway through fermentation before Viognier (4%) was added to complete the co-fermentation. It saw 80/20 seasoned French and American barrels (3-4 years old) for six months. Pretty scents of red petals, red cherry fruit, red apple skin, apricot kernel and dried sage bring lift, energy and plenty of joy. These flow seamlessly to the palate where the expected Granite Belt minerality raises its hand along with fine sheets of black pepper. Fine brick dust tannins coat the palate on close with a faint lick of meatiness and balsamic upping the moreish factor. A great drink for the asking price, this is an enthusiastic recommendation from me. 92/100 Region: Granite Belt RRP: $29 Source: Sample Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)34 views20-302390-94ptsblendsgranite-beltshiraz - news
Travellers Chardonnay 2023
A well-balanced and structured Chardonnay, it delivers freshness and good fruit with immediate appeal. Sourced from two Granite Belt sites (Sirromet and Ballandean Estate), it opens with scents of custard apple and golden apple. Honey tones slide in with time in the glass. Although quite broad through the mouth, the fruit offers respectable vibrance. The touch of minerality speaks of its granite roots with a veil of slippery phenolics. Soft cinnamon spices curl around the palate on close with a bright lemony and grapefruit acidity. It's nicely done. 91/100 Region: Granite Belt RRP: $35 Source: Sample Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)23 views30-402390-94ptschardonnaygranite-belt