2022 Charles Melton Domaine Sophie Claire GSR Red, Barossa Valley

‘Here, 4% riesling was co-fermented with grenache and shiraz; matured for 18 months in French and American oak, 10% new. I like the freshness of this wine. Look. I think I might be going bonkers, but I'm sure I can see some lime in that bright acid profile. Which would make sense. Outside of that, the fruit – all red cherry, cranberry and red, plummy stuff – is gorgeous. Dotted with spice and citrus blossom tones, some nice space and detail within, with gentle tannins and that fresh acidity livening this up and providing velocity. Great medium-bodied drinking.’ Drink 2023-2030.’

95 points Special Value Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au July 2024

Grenache, Shiraz and Riesling from Krondorf and the Eden Valley. A small percentage of Riesling (4%) was co-fermented with the Grenache and Shiraz for this wine. Whole berry maceration has given this blend a vibrant purple hue and elegant, sweetly aromatic perfume. The wine spent 18 months in French and American oak, of which 10% were new. The wine was unfined and unfiltered prior to bottling.

The 2022 Charles Melton Domaine Sophie Claire GSR Red from the Barossa Valley is a luxurious and finely tuned expression of a traditional Rhône-style blend, with a distinctly Australian accent. Named after Charles Melton’s daughter, this cuvée blends Grenache, Shiraz and Riesling — an unconventional but inspired combination that showcases the depth of Barossa fruit with a subtle, unexpected twist of aromatic lift.

The Grenache provides fragrance and spice, drawn from old bush vines in the Barossa’s sandy soils. Shiraz adds plush fruit and structure, while the surprising inclusion of a small percentage of Riesling offers a delicate lift and brightness that enhances the wine’s perfume and balance. This is a wine where traditional and creative winemaking meet in harmony.

Winemaking is handled with Charles Melton’s signature attention to detail. Each variety is vinified separately with gentle handling, then matured in older French oak to preserve freshness and purity. The final blend is assembled with an eye for both immediate drinkability and medium-term ageing potential.

In the glass, it offers aromas of red cherry, raspberry, dried rose, spice and subtle earth. The palate is medium-bodied and vibrant, with juicy red fruit, soft tannins, and a fresh, savoury finish. The Riesling component is not overt but adds aromatic lift and structure, making this a truly unique and balanced red.

Pair it with grilled duck, charcuterie, lamb koftas or roasted root vegetables with herbs. It's drinking beautifully now but will evolve nicely over the next 5 to 7 years.