Rusden Chookshed Zinfandel 2023 from Vine Vale in the Barossa is a big, plush red that wears its Zinfandel heart on its sleeve, overflowing with ripe blackberry, dark plum, black cherry, spice cake, anise and cocoa. It is rich, hedonistic and very much a statement wine from one of Australia’s few serious Zin producers.

On the palate, Rusden Chookshed Zinfandel 2023 is full‑bodied, warm and mouth‑filling, with layers of dark fruits, dried cranberry and cherry, orange peel, chocolate, liquorice and raisiny depth wrapped in plush texture and fine, firm tannins. Hand‑picked, wild‑fermented and basket‑pressed, then aged in seasoned French and American oak, it balances sheer power with enough acidity and savoury edge to keep you coming back for another glass.

Food‑wise, this is a natural with slow‑cooked brisket, smoky barbecued ribs, spicy sausages, rich stews and hard, flavour‑packed cheeses. Rusden Chookshed Zinfandel 2023 is unapologetically bold, perfectly suited to hearty dishes and long Barossa evenings.