Kaesler’s ‘Avignon’ 2021 from the Barossa Valley is a spicy, detailed GSM blend named after Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s famous town, crafted from ancient 94-year-old Grenache and Mourvèdre vines alongside 59-year-old Shiraz that deliver exceptional pedigree. Bright garnet to ruby red, this wine bursts with pure plummy and red-berried fruits cut with ginger spice, cola, earth, purple flowers and roasting meats, while dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry aromas weave through vanillin confectionary and peppered earth notes. The palate is a joy to drink with wonderful space and tension – rich juicy dark raspberry, plum and ripe cherry fruits flood forward with velvet smooth tannins, finishing chalky with a plume of spice, raspberry and red plum.

This medium-bodied Avignon GSM blend pairs brilliantly with roasting meats where its savoury spice notes complement charred flavours, while beef and venison dishes allow the wine’s bright line and earthy complexity to shine through. Each variety underwent 7–10 days skin fermentation with careful management to avoid over-extraction, then 15 months in older French oak barriques.

Scored 95 points by Dave Brookes at Halliday Wine Companion and Gold at the 2023 Royal Perth Wine Show, this brilliant 2021 vintage wine is a genuine 10/10 season expression. Drink now through 2033 to enjoy the Kaesler Avignon’s shapely, opulent yet fresh character with an amply powered, long succulent finish.