Zappa Wines Barbera 2009

Get used to seeing New England Australia on your wine bottle. It is after all, one of Australia’s newest & largest designated wine regions.  The Zappa family established their vineyard in the far reaches of the region in the Dumaresq Valley west of Tenterfield.  Looking at the professional looking label, this family means business and don’t be surprised to find their wines popping up on a wine list near you.

The Barbera is brick red with the fragrance of earth with more than a whiff of roses, cherry & cinnamon spice. They have attempted to subdue the oak by using hogsheads instead of barriques and probably could go further and use more seasoned barrels amongst the new wood to let the fruit shine through more and keep that warm spice more subtle.  There is plenty of savoury length on this wine and it is a wine that is a food wine but still one that you might enjoy just kicking back with friends.

Date:  25th October 2010   Price:  $22   Value: $$  Drink:  Now –  5+years