Balgownie Black Label Shiraz 2010 (Bendigo & Heathcote, Vic)
14.5%, Screwcap, $20
Source: Sample
www.balgownieestate.com.au

Surely a contender for the fabled ‘tastiest cool climate Shiraz for $20 or less’ trophy, this is admirably well made and affable juice.

At first whiff I thought it was Yarra, such was the black pepper edge to that nose. Black pepper and black jelly babies alongside cola and blackberries. All very alluring. Palate too is silky, ripe and well handled all spice spice and spice. It’s perhaps a little bitter and dry towards the back but that also serves as a reminder of how good (and serious this is).

Good, juicy, spicy red this, a real lovely example of modern Victorian Shiraz. It’s not profound, or particularly tannic or deep, but the style and texture is spot on.

Drink: 2013-2017
Score: 17.7/20 92/100
Would I buy it? If I was looking for a tasty cool climate Shiarz this would be firmly on the menu.