2023 Billy Button The Alluring Tempranillo, Alpine Valley

Essentially elegant but so very well fruited. This tempranillo has an excellent pulse to it. It tastes of blueberries and raspberries, gentle vanilla, violets, red roses, sweet spice and earth. It’s all going on in the best of ways; the finesse of the tannin is A Class; the blood-like, ferrous inflections send the wines into a umami direction. Love this wine. Have enjoyed it on a few occasions and it woos me every time.

94 points Campbell Mattinson winefront.com.au

An enticing wine on so many levels and still so young. Blueberry, black cherry and the exuberance of red licorice spice mingle with dried herbs and earth. So bright, juicy and drinkable now, but that taut tannin base is a precursor to further development and time in bottle.

94 points Special Value Jeni Port winecompanion.com.au

From the elevated slopes of Victoria’s Alpine Valley comes a Tempranillo that reflects both mountain freshness and Billy Button’s playful precision. Founded by Jo Marsh in 2012, Billy Button Wines has built a strong following for championing alternative varieties in north east Victoria. The Alpine Valley’s warm days, cool nights and granite influenced soils provide ideal conditions for Tempranillo to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity and aromatic lift. The Alluring Tempranillo is crafted to showcase vibrancy and drinkability rather than weight, staying true to both site and style.

Deep ruby with purple flashes, the aromatics are expressive and inviting. Red plum, dark cherry and raspberry unfold alongside hints of dried herbs, subtle spice and a touch of earthy savouriness. There is a freshness to the bouquet that reflects the cool alpine climate.

On the palate it is medium bodied, supple and lively. Dark and red berry fruit glide across fine tannins and bright acidity, giving both structure and energy. Notes of tobacco leaf, gentle oak and spice add depth without overpowering the fruit. The finish is smooth, savoury and persistent, with lingering plum and spice.

Pair with grilled lamb, chorizo, tapas plates, roast pork or mushroom dishes. Enjoy now for its vibrancy and charm, or cellar comfortably for eight to twelve years as it develops deeper savoury complexity.