💎 Hidden Gems (& Misses) 💎
We’re lucky to live in a country where good, cheap reds are almost a birthright. Every bottle shop aisle is packed with potential hidden gems, waiting to be discovered. Usually, a wine that’s been around for a few years is a solid bet. Last week's bottle was an example of this and is why we grabbed this bottle. Unfortunately, this time, our trick let us down.
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The Bargain Bottle That Missed the Mark👎
🍷 Barossa Merchants Co. Barossa Valley Shiraz (2023)
We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to cheap Aussie reds. Seriously, we could definitely fill an Olympic swimming pool and swim in the amount of decent Shiraz out there under $15. So when we saw this Barossa Valley bottle, it seemed like a sure bet. It’s been around since 2018, and usually, longevity is a green flag for quality. But in this case? It’s more like finding out your favourite band’s latest album is just a lazy remix of their old hits.
For $11 on a Dan’s member deal (normally $13.99), it’s not the worst way to spend your cash, but we’ve found much better reds in this price range. It’s drinkable, sure, but only in the same way a lukewarm servo sausage roll is edible. If you’re desperate and have nothing else on hand, you’ll make do, but you won’t be happy about it.
In short it lacks that punch-you-in-the-face richness we love in a Shiraz. A wave of bitterness that makes you question if you accidentally poured yourself a cup of over-steeped black tea instead. There’s a bit of fruit lurking in there somewhere, but it’s fighting for its life against a finish that overstays its welcome like an uninvited guest who won’t take the hint.
The label, we’ll admit, looks pretty slick - the kind of thing you’d proudly place on the dinner table with pride. In this case, it’s the equivalent of a fancy menu at a dodgy pub - all show, no substance.
Now, if you’re feeling particularly scientific and want to compare it to some of our better red recommendations, go for it. But if you’re looking for a knockout Barossa Shiraz, keep moving - there are plenty of other fish (or in this case, grapes) in the sea.
VITR Official Score: 4 / 10
👍 Reality vs Perception: Looks like a winner, but sips like a budget wine that bit off more than it could chew.
👩🎨 Label Aesthetics: Classic and modern all in one, quite stylish - shame about what’s inside.
👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: Nonno would take one sip, give you a death stare and then go back to his vat shaking his head.
🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: Only if you don’t like your guests. There are many other cheaper, better tasting alternatives.
🤑 Keep the Change: If you take our advice and don't buy this bottle, you'll have $15 left to spend on another bottle.
Real Talk
📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It
Oenophile: Pronounced “ee-nuh-file”, this is just a fancy way of saying “wine nerd.” If you already knew this term, you may already be one.
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💡 Sip Tip
Looking for gems: Check how many past vintages a wine has. If it’s been around a while, chances are it’s got something going for it. Usually.
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🍿 Sip & Snack
Cava & Crispy Pork Belly: The bubbly freshness cuts through the crispy, fatty goodness like a champion.
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Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷
Some risks pay off, some don’t. This one? Not so much. But hey, it’s all part of the hunt. If you’ve got a wine you think deserves a taste test, let us know - we’re always up for a new adventure.
See you next week!✌️
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