First Ridge’s Barbera vines are grown at the highest part of their vineyard in Mudgee, NSW at just under 600 metres, where the top soils are shallow, with shale rock and iron stone in the soil. Well regarded local James Manners is winemaker.
First Ridge, Barbera, Mudgee, 2022
Deep garnet in colour. Steeping plums, dried cranberry, pouch tobacco, roast beetroot, licks of vanilla oak (15% new) and char. Medium to full. Plummy, spiced fruit balanced by umami roasting pan juices cut with some surprising acidity. Tannins firm and drying showcase a fine frame. Enjoyable solo but spot on with meaty dishes.
RRP: $45
Alc: 14.8%
Rating: 91/100
Wine sample courtesy of First Ridge and Define Wine
vinonotebook 