Aussie Wines!

Bendigo is in Central Victoria, about 150 k’s North of Melbourne. Originally a scene of the Australian Gold Rush days, it’s now proving to be a pretty decent area for wine too. It’s mostly famous for the reds of the region, especially Shiraz that can be quite intense.

Balgownie Estate was established in 1969 and was one of the first in the region. The first Shiraz was made in 1972. I picked this one up for $35 and am quite impressed with the value for money.

It’s a deep red in colour, still with a purple edge. That purple colour often indicates a youthful wine that may not be ready to drink yet, but that’s not the case here.

On the nose you’ll find rich red berry fruit, fairly intense without being overpowering and just a touch of spice. The use of oak is quite restrained, so you won’t find a load of vanilla there.

In the mouth, it’s pleasant and about as refreshing as a red wine can be… the 14% alcohol is very well handled and really doesn’t stand out at all. You may also find a flavour in there that reminds you of licorice. The wine is well balanced with just a dash of drying tannin on the back, but literally just a dash, not much at all. There’s a slightly sweeter finish that you’d expect too, but it’s a good thing. I quite like it and I think it’s a great Shiraz for those who don’t want a huge Barossa number or for those who are drinking Shiraz with someone who doesn’t want a hugely oaked or intensely peppered Shiraz. Drink now if you like, but you can get a few more years out of it… although it doesn’t need it. 91 points