I really enjoy wines that are in the more savoury spectrum and Tempranillo most often lands right in that spectrum with grace and power. Around 15 years ago Tempranillo was being touted as the next variety for The Granite Belt but it didn’t perform according to expectations. Something changed around 7-8 years ago, I’m not sure what but I began encountering a few great Tempranillos and now they are becoming more prolific. Joven and Crianza styles, some with a small percentage of whole bunch but most of all classical Tempranillo fruit profiles that are a joy to consume.
Four months in second use French Oak and it’s quality oak, I’m guessing AP John but could be way off. A fairly deep colour for a reasonably lightly oaked Tempranillo, cherries/cherry cola and orange rind on the nose. On this cooler Brisbane night this is a cuddly wine to keep you company, it gently nuzzles up to your palate and presents you with plums, sour red cherries, those orange rinds that are also on the bouquet, hints of liquorice, spices, a little black tea, a little kiss of fresh acid, and slightly chewy tannins to round out the experience while marching through the cuddly nuzzling is that savouriness that my palate just can’t resist.
Tasted: Saturday 2nd May, 2020 without food and then with over several hours.
Alcohol: 13%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $32.40 (19% discount special)
Suggested Drinking Window: Now to 2027
Winemaker: John Handy
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