Winemaker Ray Costanzo says 2012 is the best vintage he has seen on the Granite Belt. So much so he dedicated a new label to it – Vintage Grand Reserve.

Made from 50 year old vines, this is smart. Only medium weight, the best of it is yet to come.
Black fruits, some chocolate and varietal spice, a dab of white pepper and a hint of clove hold the fort. Cedary oak floats around effortlessly adding another dimension. There is some fruit sweetness but that only builds to a well layered palate.

I’d buy one for sure but I wouldn’t touch it for another couple of years. Cellar for up to ten years.

Very good.

Region: Granite Belt
RRP: $45

www.goldengroveestate.com.au
Review by Queensland Wine, February 2015