One of the things Smidge Wines has stated they set out to do is make wines that have a sense of place. One of the key things with that is finding the right grapes for each area. It certainly makes sense then that they make a Barossa Valley Shiraz. Many fine wines have emerged from Barossa, but Shiraz is king there.
300 Cases of the 2005 Adamo were made. 20% of it spent a year in new French oak. The remainder was aged in 2-4 year old oak. Adamo was bottled unfiltered.
Blackberry and spice lead the nose with leather and cedar notes present but far more subtle at first. The first sip of Adamo reveals lush, rich fruit that has a slight undercurrent of tartness. The tartness subsides as the wine breathes. The mid-palate has dark plum and mocha characteristics accompanied by copious spice notes. The finish, which is substantial in length has cherry and spice notes along with additional mocha that lingers. For a wine with very big fruit upfront Adamo is balanced by a terrific acidity. This wine would go perfectly with a pulled pork sandwich. Failing that, grilled meats in general would be a great match. In fact with Easter coming up, this is a great choice for anyone serving Lamb.
The bottom line is that Adamo is big, rich, opulent and expressive. Smidge Wines has created a terrific expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz. The retail price is $35, and it's well worth that. I'd expect this wine has at least 5 years of enjoyable drink-ability ahead of it.
The Donald, a Barossa Valley Zinfandel is next from Smidge Wines
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