2019 Mt Bera Shiraz ‘Amphitheatre’ Blaufrankisch

This is a fascinating wine. Blaufrankish is the most popular red variety in Austria, and this blend works really well, with the Austrian adding fragrance and gentle elegance to the Shiraz. Good drinking already, and will open up a bit more over a year or 2.

Blaufränkisch is another grape which is new to most Aussie winelovers. It has done well in Austria, the Czech Republic and Germany. Known for deep colour, spicy flavours and firm tannins, the decision to blend it with local Shiraz seems a masterstroke – it works seamlessly. Ripe flavours, this is indeed spicy with notes of mulberries, chocolate, cedar, black cherries, tobacco leaves and dark berries with good concentration. Some coffee grind notes emerged on the palate which also shows good acidity and length. Drink anytime from now for the next five to six years, but it will certainly improve if given time. Lots to like here.