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. Note: Bottle image is of 2022, but naught else has changed

First Ridge, Barbera, Mudgee, 2023

Deep, opaque garnet with a ruby edge. Ripe blood plum, black cherry, blackberry and Chambord raspberry smells. Some meaty Parmesan-rind and charcuterie depth, spice, vanilla from the oak, and a hint of tobacco spice. Feels a little warm and firm, with that tobacco spice biting and some waxy tannin presence. Dark flavour profile: Licorice, plum and cherry abound, but just missing a little structure and focus for the price. Happy to match with a Sopressa and sourdough stack sandwich.

RRP: $45
Alc: 14.5%
Rating:  89/100

Wine sample courtesy of First Ridge and Define Wine