Rutherglen is the spiritual home of Durif in Australia, but Calabria steal a little bit of thunder from over the Murray River with consist. Stainless steel ferment, twice daily pump-overs (juice over skins) for 8 days during fermentation. Racked to 100% American oak Hogsheads and Barriques 12 months maturation.

Calabria Family Wines, Three Bridges, Durif, Riverina, 2024

Crushed blackberries and brambles, chunky blood plum, pencil shavings, prunes and dates with big vanilla dollops from the American oak. Buttered toast with blackberry jam, baking spices and baked earth. It’s all about the tannins, yeah? They’re big and ubiquitous, but in place and balance. Having said that, there is a delicious satin overlay of dark fruit and chocolate. Perfect for lamb roast or beef short ribs.

RRP: $24.95
Alc: 14.5%
Rating: 92/100

Wine sample courtesy of Calabria Family Wines