Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown Prêt-à-Rouge 2024

A blend of Syrah, Pinot Noir and Sangiovese from Wooragee, Black Springs and Stanley in Beechworth. Familiar pine and forest notes feature here — characters that appear regularly in the VS&B reds. Forest floor and subtle field mushroom make way for dark cherry, clove and a dusting of nutmeg. Delicate but lovely. The palate is medium-bodied, lifted and supple while maintaining a level of juiciness: forest berries, tangy cherry, woody spice, forest floor. A good frame of grainy tannins carries to solid length. There’s a seriousness to this wine that belies its price point, but it’s also eminently approachable. As with previous releases, it’s exceptional value for money.