Ros Ritchie Nebbiolo 2017 from the Timbertop Vineyard in Victoria’s high country is a beautifully mature, cool‑climate expression, showing brick‑ruby colour and that classic nebbiolo mix of perfume, savoury nuance and firm structure. Aromas of violet, sour cherry and sweet spice sit alongside herbs, tobacco leaf and leather, giving plenty of complexity without feeling heavy. The palate is mid‑weight but serious, with pronounced grape tannins, bright acidity and sour‑cherry flavour driving through a long, savoury finish.

This is food wine through and through – spot on with slow‑braised beef, pork shoulder, game dishes or rich mushroom ragù over polenta. Those assertive tannins and acidity love protein and fat, so think hearty braises, hard cheeses and truffle‑scented dishes. I’d be pouring this Ros Ritchie Nebbiolo 2017 alongside osso buco or a classic lasagne for maximum effect.

With 18 months in seasoned and younger French oak and fruit grown at 565 metres, Ros Ritchie Nebbiolo 2017 brings genuine Italianate structure with Victorian finesse. It’s a nebbiolo that will appeal to Barolo lovers looking for something more affordable and local, offering real grip, complexity and age‑worthy bones from a pioneering cool‑climate producer.