2023 Jericho Tempranillo, Adelaide Hills

Jericho Tempranillo from the Adelaide Hills is a fresh, savoury red with a distinctly Mediterranean vibe—earthy, vibrant, and wildly drinkable. The Jericho family has a gift for letting varieties speak in their own voice, and this one hums with cool-climate energy and understated charm. Winemaker Kim Jericho brings a light touch to the fruit, crafting a style that’s more Rioja joven than big Aussie red.

Grown in the elevated slopes of the Adelaide Hills, the fruit benefits from cool nights and long growing seasons, which means natural acidity stays high and flavours remain bright. Fermentation is kept gentle, with minimal extraction, and the wine is aged in older oak to enhance complexity while preserving freshness.

The nose leads with sour cherry, red plum, and wild herbs, followed by hints of dried rose, spice and a whisper of dusty cocoa. The palate is medium-bodied and savoury, with crunchy red fruit, fine tannins and that classic Tempranillo earthy-meets-juicy character. There’s a nice grip without heaviness, and the finish is clean and dry with a little spice twist.

This is the kind of red that loves food—think jamón, chorizo, wood-fired pizza, grilled mushrooms or smoky eggplant. Or just chill it down slightly and pour it alongside tapas and good company. Pure, honest, and seriously moreish.