Dodgy Bros Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre 2012 (McLaren Vale, SA)
15%, Screwcap, $29
www.dodgybrotherswines.com
A question – does an upside-down label make you more or less likely to pick up a bottle of wine?
That’s the talking point about this wine, the latest release from the micro scale Dodgy Brothers label.
I asked Wes Pearson, Dodgy winemaker, why he puts his labels on the wrong way: ‘You can’t call yourself dodgy and not have something dodgy about the label!’.
In truth, Wes explains that this was intended to be a light hearted take on the Dodgy Brothers branding and a bit of fun, but over time has evolved into a marketing USP:
‘You can’t separate yourself from the masses by just making good wine anymore – everyone makes good wine. You’ve got to give someone a reason to pick up your bottle.’ Wes said.
The good news is that, putting the labelling aside for a second, the wine inside is good. It’s a slick, modern, spicy and well-made representation of the early-ripening, fruit-luscious Sellicks foothills style.
I had it open on the bench for three days and it only got better, further suggesting that this Dodgy wine is going to look non-dodgy for many years yet.
Ultimately a clever red all round, this definitely gets the thumbs up from me. Well worth tracking down.
Oh and the final word on the labels? Wes puts it nicely:
‘Not everyone will like it or ‘get it’ but that’s life. I hope some people DO get it… or I’m in trouble!’
Drink: 2014-2022
Score: 17.7/20, 92/100
Would I buy it? Off a list with ribs this would be a starter for sure.
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