James Halliday 92 points
Background Tempranillo is now the most widely planted wine grape in the world. It is a relatively recent arrival in Australia, so we are pleased to have found a great example as BackVintage’s first listing. Although it thrives through most parts of its native Spain, it can be a challenging grape to grow. All the same, in a good regional environment and in the skilled hands of Natasha Mooney the result is beautiful. Winter and Spring saw near-record rainfall in the Adelaide Hills, but March was dry – fortunate for the final ripening. Autumn was mostly cool, and vintage the latest for several years. The grapes came from a single vineyard at Kersbrook and were picked on 23rd March 2017. After a four day fermentation the wine was matured for three months in large format oak barrels.
ColourModerately deep purple.
NoseFresh, sweet, fruits – blueberry, a hint of raspberry – with aromatic spices.
Structure / PalateMedium bodied and supple, with plenty of flesh on the mid-palate. Juicy, almost lush fruit flavours with a fine cut of lightly firm tannin.
This wine combines Tempranillo’s characteristic plump palate with fine, firm tannins. It is a ready now and will gain complexity into 2020. It’s delicious with all red meat dishes, pasta or a full-flavoured paella.
James Halliday 2019 Wine Companion review: "Made to reflect the early ripening nature of tempranillo in a fruit-forward style without alcohol ripeness. Excellent colour, well made, with ample red and black cherry fruit, attractive tannins and a fine-spun savoury finish. No need for excuses or qualifications here." 92 points. Drink to 2023.
