Barossa Valley 13.5% $20 Screwcap Source: Sample
A moment to blow my own horn; I scooped Max Allen in recognising the value of this wine in its last incarnation. Geez I’m good. Ok, enough bragging.
This year it’s got a new name, simply known as “Joven”. And it’s not just Tempranillo Garnacha either. Wayne Ahrens has thrown in some Monastrell/Mourvèdre/Mataró. The whole package is even better, I’m happy to say.
Positively bursting with juicy red & black berries and oh so fresh. There’s a touch of pure “grapey-ness” about the flavour too. Lots of spice on the back palate; mostly nutmeg & pepper. Those are the keys, but tomato flavoured, soft acidity and a tiny suggestion of earth both help it along. A lick of tannin on the finish too.
So easy to drink & food friendly, there is a danger that you’ll fail to notice what a very good wine it is. And perhaps that’s a part of its charm too. 220 cases made. Get it while it’s fresh.
Winery Website- https://www.smallfrywines.com.au/
Hi Jeremy, thanks for the kind words, I reckon the splash or M has really lifted this wine and given it some greater depth so I'm glad you think it is better than last year.
Wayne- I was guessing that the M added spice, earth, cherry and aromatic intensity? Certainly adds depth. What are your impressions of the specific qualities the grape imparted?
cheers
j
Hi Jeremy,
M is for mouthfeel I reckon it floods your gums and makes everything richer and fuller, spice(nutneg, cinnamon and star anise)and earth I agree with not sure about cherry that is the Temp I think, fruit characters in M are more plummy end of the spectrum. Had the Rusden Full Circle Mataro yesterday which is a great example of what Vine Vale M tastes like by itself.
Cheers
Wayne
Thanks for the info Wayne. Greatly appreciated.
cheers
jeremy