The Formula Robert's Shiraz 2020
Small Gully Wines · Australia, Barossa Valley
At a glance
- Producer
- Small Gully Wines
- Region
- Australia, Barossa Valley
- Grape variety
- Shiraz
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $20-$30
Tasting profile
Ripe dark berry and plum notes with hints of chocolate and spice. Some youthful tannic grip and peppery elements.
Evolution: With age, expect integration of oak and tannins, adding complexity of leather, earth, and dried herbs.
At peak: Balanced and expressive layered fruit with smooth tannins and pleasant savory spice.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium acidity providing freshness
- Tannins
- Medium to firm tannins characteristic of Barossa Shiraz
- Alcohol
- 14.5% ABV
- Aging potential
- 8-12 years from vintage, typical for well-crafted Barossa Shiraz in this price range
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2026 to 2030
- Optimal window
- 2024 to 2032
- Current status
- Approaching early maturity
- Current condition
- Wine shows youthful bold fruit with some tannic grip and acidity; best approached with some cellaring to allow full integration.
The robust structure and acidity support medium to long-term aging typical of Barossa Shiraz, especially from quality producers like Small Gully Wines, allowing the wine to soften and develop tertiary notes over time.
Food pairing
Grilled or roasted red meats, barbecue ribs, lamb, hearty stews, and aged cheese.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic development
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Use of water-efficient irrigation, vineyard floor cover crops, and minimal chemical inputs. Packaging employs lightweight glass bottles to reduce carbon impact.
Small Gully Wines demonstrates credible sustainability efforts focused on resource conservation and eco-friendly packaging. While lacking formal certification, their operational practices contribute positively to environmental stewardship, positioning this wine as reasonably sustainable.