Arila Gardens Gardens of Moppa GSM 2021

The emergence of the wonderful and classic Barossa wines from Arila Gardens has been a highlight over recent years. This blend hails from a mix of local Moppa vineyards with a cepage of Grenache (56%), Shiraz (39%) and Mataro (5%). The fruit underwent cold soaking for 24 hours and a small percentage of whole bunches were placed at the base of the fermenters, the rest being whole berries. Co-fermentation was in a small open top fermenter for 10 days with gentle pumpovers and also hand plunging, before 14 months in seasoned French oak hogsheads on lees. It was then bottled without fining.

Deep magenta in colour, a lovely nose here, just bursting with cherries, florals, spices, cocoa powder, licorice and tobacco leaf notes. Plush and seamless, the palate sees the emergence of chocolate notes. The wine has concentration and focus. Expect it to drink well for the next five to eight years, though it is delicious now. A fine example of the blend.