James & Co. Beechworth Sangiovese 2013

An ambitious new Sangiovese from Rutherglen winemaker Ricky James.

Caramel and sweet vanilla on the nose – almost milky oak. Underneath there’s a lovely leathery Sangio core but it’s just a little sunny and oaky, the fruit a little caramelised to rise above red wine simplicity. Palate structure underneath is excellent though – even and balanced. If only the oak and sweet fruit was dialled back a little!

A name to watch, if not the complete wine now.

Detail: 14%, Screwcap, $30
Tasted: May 2015 (sample)
Best drinking: 2016-2022
Score: 16.8/20, 89/100
Would I buy it? Not quite. In years to come? More likely.
Buy James & Co. Beechworth Sangiovese 2013 online: James & Co. website