Gapsted Alpine Road Tempranillo 2022 from Gapsted Estate in Victoria’s cool Alpine Valleys is a juicy, Joven‑style red that bursts with blackberry, ripe fig and a lick of sweet vanilla‑scented spice, offering serious drinkability at a very friendly price. This Gapsted Alpine Road 2022 Tempranillo shows how well this Spanish variety thrives in cooler Victorian sites.

On the palate, those lifted blackberry and fig notes roll through with hints of dark cherry and subtle oak, giving a plush, fruit‑driven core wrapped in savoury spice. Fine, well‑handled tannins and balanced acidity keep the wine fresh and medium‑bodied, finishing smooth, dry and moreish without any hard edges.

This is a terrific mid‑week red with chargrilled sausages, lamb cutlets, pizza, tapas or a big pan of smoky chorizo and bean stew, where that generous fruit and fine tannin structure stand up to richness and spice without overpowering the plate. It’s also spot‑on for a casual BBQ or a platter of hard cheeses and cured meats shared with friends.