Gundog Estate Smoking Barrel Red 2014

A blend of Hunter and Murrumbateman Shiraz. Interesting combination that. Rich red earth meets black pepper. Great vintage in the Hunter too…

This is very bright purple. Almost lurid purple. A dash of Viognier? Certainly a floral little number. Sweet-fruited palate is all boysenberry ripple fruit juiciness, on a Pinotesque frame that is no more than medium bodied and gentle, finished off with a little alcohol warmth.

It speaks in a gentle, easy tone, with just a little late palate chunkiness to suggest a cellaring future. Gentle, lively, this is perhaps a bit sweet and juicy, but it is certainly pretty. I’d like to see more savouriness, but this is attractive enough.

Good, though it did feel like drinking a barrel sample.

Details: 14%, Screwcap, $30
Tasted: April 2015 (sample)
Drink: 2015-2025
Score: 17/20, 90/100+
Would I buy it? It’s nice but I wouldn’t be buying this just yet – too plump and youthful
Buy online: Gundog Estate website