The Lane Provenance Tempranillo 2022

I admit to being surprised, nicely surprised. The more I tasted this Tempranillo, not a red grape generally associated with the Adelaide Hills, the more I enjoyed it. Once again, that ’22 vintage intensity in colour – black cherry-deep purple hues – was eye-catching. The Spanish grape is a classic variety with good reason. Here, it brings its strong fruit qualities to bear while retaining an elegance and poise. Great colour and a deep, spiced dark berry and cherry perfume melds into earth, dried leaves, licorice and pepper. What elevates this Tempranillo from some of the more rustic styles is the fineness of tannins which, in combination with more herbal and oak interplay on the palate brings good depth and balance. Everything is in its place.