Shy Susan Tempranillo 2023

Shy Susan Tempranillo 2023
$65, 14% alcohol, screwcap, Alpine Valleys.

This is the kind of wine that you make when you really know your vineyard sources. There’s a seriousness to the tannin, a depth to the fruit, an inbuilt herbal complexity, and great extension. It’s silken, meaty and complex with berried fruit, twiggy herbs, toast and pepper characters rippling throughout. There’s lots going on with this wine and yet it’s fruit-filled and welcoming. The tannin – which is not overly assertive – then takes it to the next level, courtesy of the fact that it helps pull the fruit-and-spice flavours out through the finish. This wine is not excessive or overblown; it’s medium weight, and just plain terrific. 95 points.