2023 Tim Smith Bugalugs Shiraz, Barossa Valley

If this Tim Smith Bugalugs Shiraz was the house pour at your palazzo, damn, you’d be grinning from ear to ear. A quality producer you need to introduce yourself to, this is another cracker from a stable of wines that punch above their weight in the quality and value stakes. I’ve noted a few wines in recent years to be the “essence of Barossa Shiraz” and this absolutely catapults itself into that list. Juicy dark berry fruit move and sway about with ease coating every crevice of the mouth. Wonderfully weighted, dark chocolate and some vanilla from the oak add to the pleasure zone. Fine baking spices and a puff of earthiness continue to peel back the interest all the while the juicy fruit keeps lobbing up flavour bombs. Great stuff and then some. Pour large and share with those who dance with the music up loud.

93 points Steve Leszczynski qwine.com

Tim Smith Bugalugs Shiraz is a lively and approachable wine that embodies the bold spirit of Barossa Valley. Crafted by renowned winemaker Tim Smith, known for his passion for creating authentic and expressive wines, Bugalugs Shiraz offers exceptional quality at great value.

This wine boasts a deep ruby hue and opens with vibrant aromas of blackberry, plum, and black pepper, with hints of vanilla and smoky oak. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied with juicy dark fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a smooth, satisfying finish. Perfect for casual dinners, it pairs beautifully with BBQ, burgers, or hearty pasta dishes.