This is a matador looking for a bull to accompany it to a bbq that would make Spain proud, and a feast for the neighbouring farm.

Another Spanish grape variety gaining ground – and fast – in McLaren Vale. It scores big on flavour generosity and well-honed tannins, just don’t compare it to Shiraz. It hates that. This is a full-blooded Tempranillo setting a cracking pace as it roams
across the tongue. Black cherry, plum, earth, dried fig aromas. Contrasts a pleasant, easy-going nature with plenty of stand-up structure and freshness. Earthiness mingles amongst sweet, ripe fruits with a good pinch of dried herbs and dusty tannins thrown in.

Pizza night comes calling. It was homemade pizza in this case and it's Tempranillo all the way!

A fab food wine particularly if there is something meaty involved. Prosciutto Di Parma in this case. Think choc dipped raspberries, pan juices, cured meats, dark cherries and cola. There's a softness about it with a smooth delivery finishing with flashes of dried herbs. Enjoyable and then some.

On the 100-hectare ‘Taranga’ property in McLaren Vale the sixth generation of the Oliver family grow Aussie classics such as Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon but also lesser-planted varieties including Mencia, Touriga Nacional and Tempranillo, which were introduced 25 years ago due to their drought resistance. The Tempranillo is smoky and rich with bacon fat, ripe cherry and plum characters. Soft, fine tannins give is a velvety mouthfeel and delicate finish.
Tasted by Chris Wilson(at B1, London, 21 Jan 2020)
Part of Iberian reds from Australia: Top picks

Take a sip and it immediately becomes very obvious why this Spanish variety is so often matched with roast lamb (or lamb in whatever way takes your fancy) back in Rioja. This is another wine from their Small Batch program – and the year, ‘we made a delicious gin from our quinces’, which, with the greatest apologies to Marj the bulldog, sounds way more interesting.
The wine is pale red, exhibiting aromas of dark berries, warm earth, florals, roast meats, dry herbs, cherries and with a slight brambly note. There is good focus here, through to very fine, soft tannins. Impressive length and nicely balanced acidity. Love the line in this wine.