Paisley Barossa Valley Tartan Montepulciano 2023

What a famous Scottish fabric has to do with a delicious Italian variety grown in Australia’s Barossa Valley, I am unable to ascertain, but no matter. I have seen plenty of labels with less connection to the wine and the important thing is always what is in the bottle. The wine spent time maturing in older French oak. A dark maroon hue, the nose is all about smoky red fruits and spicy notes. Woodsmoke and a slight but intriguing briny note is evident, along with hints of leather and beef stock. There is cassis and chocolate which emerge on the finish of a wine that is generous in style with fine tannins, good length and juicy acidity. Terrific drinking now and for the next half dozen years. It would certainly add a touch of class to your next barbecue or perhaps even celebrations on Robert Burns Night, although just what wine goes with haggis, I have no idea.