A Heathcote wine (supplied by a resident expert) from Victoria, Australia. An italian variety, and rather European in style – in this expression. A dense ruby red in the glass. On the nose there is cherry, rhubarb, chocolate, cranberry, coffee bean, plum, leather and terracotta. Well structured, tight and smooth on the palate. Firm, chalky tannin forms the core, with some spicy, vanilla-flecked oak influence, and bags of juicy acidity along the way. Cinnamon, sumac and eucalypt play their part, with plenty of interesting layers of flavour – adding an aussie twist to the italian vibe. The finish is succulent but dry. 92pts