Blackbilly GSM 2025, McLaren Vale

Blackbilly GSM 2025, McLaren Vale

Back in the days when we lived up on Willunga Hill in a rammed-earth house, my regular bike rides were surrounded by the distinctive grass trees, or “blackboys” as my father-in law Rasty used to call them. They live for up to more than 600 years and grow back after fire.

This wine immediately takes me back there. Deep, bright crimson with a purple core. Blueberry, plum and dark cherry, then lavender, Turkish delight, liquorice and warm spice.

Full and generous. Grenache for lift and juice, Shiraz for depth, Mourvèdre for savoury spice and structure. Fine but substantial tannin around blue and dark fruit. Acid keeps it fresh. Seasoned oak quiet. Long, rounded finish of dark fruit, liquorice and spice. Drink now or structure for ten years or more. Roast duck, steak, or wait.

Vino Masters Score: 95/100 ★★★★★ A generous Vale GSM