2022 Gibson The Smithy Shiraz Cabernet, Barossa Valley

Bright crimson with aromas of red and dark plum and mulberry fruits with hints of baking spices, earth, violets, crushed stone, cherry clafoutis, milk chocolate, pan juices and panforte. Medium bodied with red cherry and plum on the palate, plentiful spice, fine, sandy tannin grip and a medium-length finish.

91 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Gibson The Smithy Shiraz Cabernet from the Barossa Valley is a bold, full-flavoured red that brings together two of Australia’s most iconic varieties in a seamless, richly layered blend. Crafted by Rob Gibson, a seasoned viticulturist and winemaker affectionately known as The Dirtman, this wine reflects his deep knowledge of Barossa soils and a hands-on approach to crafting wines of balance and generosity.

The Shiraz delivers plush dark fruit, spice and mouthfilling texture, while the Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure, lift and a touch of savoury complexity. Fruit is sourced from select vineyards across the Barossa, including blocks with deep red clay and sandy loam soils that give the wine its distinctive regional character.

Fermentation occurs in small open fermenters with gentle handling to preserve fruit purity and texture. Maturation in a mix of French and American oak helps round out the wine, adding subtle spice and depth without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, The Smithy shows aromas of blackberry, plum and cassis, alongside hints of cocoa, cedar and pepper. The palate is rich and smooth, with fine tannins and a long finish driven by ripe black fruit and gentle oak spice.

Enjoy it with barbecued steak, slow-cooked beef brisket or roasted field mushrooms. This is a generous and approachable Barossa red that drinks well now but will evolve nicely over the next five to seven years.