Excellent Barossa reds under $30 from Atze’s Corner

I love Christmas. Here in Sydney town the sun shines, the water sparkles and life seems a little brighter – which is so welcome after another rough week (an infected wisdom tooth. I’m cursed).

These Atze’s Corner reds are an excellent way to finish the week too. Expressive, modern Barossa reds made with a sensitive touch (hello old oak and minimal additions) and so well priced. Like.

Extra bits are in italics.

Atze’s Corner Barossa Valley A Label GSM 2016

From the Lorna’s Vineyard in Ebenezer. 60% Grenache, 30% Shiraz, 10% Mataro. Grenache spends 8 months in old oak. Shiraz and Mataro 12 months in old oak. pH 3.63 TA 5.3.

There’s a real exuberance to this wine. An energy of Grenache raspberry fruit, the plum Shiraz and licorice Mataro hints, and just a faint bitterness on the finish. Grenache is the star here, and gee it’s a convincing wine. Low acid only enhances the drinkability. Yum. Best drinking: 2017-2028. 18/20, 93/100. 14.5%, $24.95. Would I buy it? Absolutely.

Atze’s Corner The Bachelor Shiraz 2015

From 3 vineyards in Koonunga Hill and Ebenezer. 18 months in 20% new French oak with some older American in there. pH 3.69, TA 5.6.

Again, a lovely juicy red with no heavy tartaric bite. Black and red berries, an edge of choc vanilla oak and then this lovely seam of raspberry. It’s just a little warm and smoky on the back but oh so substantial and vibrant. Lovely wine. Why add acid when you can get flavour like this? Close call about whether I prefer this Shiraz or the GSM. Just prefer the former. Best drinking: 2017-2030. 18/20, 93/100. 14.5%, $30. Would I buy it? Yes.