Unwrapped: Small Gully Wines Robert's Formula Shiraz 2020

The 2020 vintage earned a 'Killer Vintage' rating of 90 points, reflecting exceptional growing conditions in the Barossa Valley that year. Cool nights and warm days allowed the shiraz grapes to develop intense flavour concentration while maintaining natural acidity. This vintage produced wines with remarkable balance between power and elegance, making it one of the standout years for Australian shiraz in recent memory.

The 'Old Vines' designation with a 90-point rating indicates these shiraz vines are likely 30+ years old, producing grapes with exceptional depth and complexity. Older vines have extensive root systems that access deeper soil layers, creating more concentrated fruit with natural balance. This translates to the wine's savoury leather and spice notes, along with its soft tannin structure that provides shape without harshness.

The 'Dangerous Value' rating suggests this Barossa shiraz delivers quality typically found in much more expensive bottles. Small Gully Wines has crafted a full-bodied shiraz with old vine complexity, rich dark chocolate and dried fruit flavours, plus excellent vintage conditions - all at a price point that makes it almost too good to pass up. It's the kind of wine that wine lovers stock up on when they discover it.

The wine's savoury profile of leather, spice and tar, combined with rich dark chocolate notes, makes it perfect for grilled red meats, especially lamb with rosemary or beef with pepper crusts. The soft, persistent tannins won't overpower game meats like venison, while the generous fruit weight complements aged cheeses and charcuterie. The cigarbox and liquorice flavours also pair beautifully with barbecued dishes and slow-cooked stews.

Serve this full-bodied shiraz at 16-18°C to showcase its complex aromatics and balanced tannin structure. Decanting for 30-60 minutes will help open up the savoury leather and spice characteristics while softening the texture further. With proper storage in a cool, dark place, this 2020 vintage has the structure to develop additional complexity over the next 5-8 years, though it's drinking beautifully now.