Smallfry Schliebs Garden 2017 by Smallfry Wines in the Barossa is an old‑school, Rhone‑inspired GSM from biodynamic bush vines, showing depth, warmth and that classic Vine Vale garden charm. It’s named in honour of the Schliebs family, whose old mixed plantings give this wine its character and “old Barossa garden” feel.

In the glass, colour is red‑purple with a touch of browning at the rim as it hits maturity. Aromas run to plum and tar, Christmas pudding and woody spice, with notes of dark cherry and cinnamon, pepper and jubey dark red fruits also called out by retailers. The palate starts with a little fruit sweetness, then moves through a light‑to‑medium mid‑palate into a long, savoury finish with silky tannins and oak framing the structure rather than dominating.

For food, Schliebs Garden 2017 is a versatile Rhone‑style performer: great with roast lamb, grilled sausages, ragù, pizza, slow‑cooked casseroles or anything with a bit of spice and richness. It will also sit nicely alongside charcuterie, hard cheeses and rustic Mediterranean dishes, making it an easy go‑to Barossa red when you need something comforting, flavoursome and food‑friendly.