The Superb Alt-Red Dozen

Dark cocoa, red plum, tobacco, blackberries. Plenty of acid and a long finish with fine tannins. We don't make much Malbec here in Oz, less than Argentina, who grow about 3/4 of the world's Malbec, less than France, the US, and South Africa. A lot of what we do make gets blended away to good effect with Cabernet. It's amazing how often a straight Cab is improved with the addition of Malbec. It's a pity, because Malbec is an exceptional straight varietal, and the Briar Ridge is a great example.

Willow Bridge continue to impress with their Reserve Tempranillo, and this latest release has just notched up 95 points from Halliday. It’s a juicy, expressive wine, showing vibrant red fruits, high acidity, dried orange peel, leather, spice, cherries, and a touch of liquorice. The palate finishes with waxy tannins. Equally at home enjoyed on its own or alongside food, it pairs beautifully with rich, meat-based dishes.

Another spellbinding Alcala Grenache; estate grown and entirely sourced from the Firehawk Farm vineyard. Ripe plush fruits of dark cherries and strawberry. Plenty of punchy, exaggerated aromatics from the high % of whole bunch in the ferment and a significant whack of new French oak. Brimming with life, bold, yet nuanced of fruit and just gorgeous.

This is supple old vine Barossa Grenache, wild fermented and then aged for 9 months in old French oak. It is already absolutely delicious but should be good for another decade, such is its balance and bright acidity. Red cherries, raspberries, a hint of cedar, and bright acid contrasted with a welcoming generosity of texture and spice. Wonderful.

A delightful, Italian inspired, medium bodied, three way blend of Montepulciano, Negroamaro and Aglianico. Superb fruits here, with cherries, plums, dried oregano, florals and cedar all playing a part in what is both a complex, beguiling and seamless red wine. A ripper, thoroughly deserving of its Gold and Top Gold medals at the Royal Adelaide Wine Show.