Calabria’s Alternato range showcase ‘alternative’ wines from the Barossa. This only compliments the new wave Italianate/Australian cuvee a tavola style.

Calabria, Alternato, Montepulciano, Nero D’Avola, Barossa Valley, 2024

Bruise purple with a bright rim. Hulled cherries, halved raspberries, bluestone, ink, Danish pastry, blueberry conserve, crushed basil leaf, vanilla tips, fennel  and hints of squid ink. Bold, with a silky front palate flowing through to drying, mesh like tannins (perfect for food!) Has a betwixt and between feel, it wears its heart on its sleeve with ripe upfront fruit, yet shows its roots with herbal undertones and that drying tannin. While the price is getting up there, it’s made for drinking, not cellaring, so share with good food and good friends.

RRP: $45
Alc: 14%
Rating: 91/100

Wine sample courtesy of Calabria Family Wines