This month we're excited to release our first Barossa Shiraz/Montepulciano blend. Although from varieties of very different personalities, this wine harmoniously brings two winemaking generations together.
The 2021 Discovery Road by Gibson Shiraz/Montepulciano combines the stalwart variety of the region with a Mediterranean newcomer, in what winemakers Rob Gibson and son Adam Fiegert are calling a “modern Barossa red of pure drinkability”.
The release, 70% Shiraz 30% Montepulciano - referred to on the label as Shiraz/Monte - is representative of the Gibson family thinking forward to the region’s grape growing future. Rob Gibson recognised Montepulciano as a “climate change compensator” several years ago - a variety that can add aromatics and vibrance to Shiraz.
We've been working with two local growers across the last eight vintages, also producing a straight Montepulciano as part of the Discovery Road range. The 2021 Shiraz/Monte release is the first to bring the two varieties together, described as having satsuma plum, wild cherry and savoury spice characters.
Fittingly, the contrasting varieties mirror a similar dynamic within the family business of Gibson itself, now in its 27th year. “Adam and I laugh at how Shiraz/Monte pretty much sums us both up as people,” said Rob Gibson. “One is a veteran with decades of experience in the region, the other a charismatic import, showing much potential on home ground. Shiraz speaks to my personality, a bit more conservative, Monte is definitely like Adam - boisterous and of the next-gen”, he added.
Adam, who is increasingly taking on more responsibility of Gibson’s vintage operations, is eager to introduce the 2021 release to the public. “This has Barossa Shiraz by the glass all over it - super-smooth - but with a curious little twist,” said Adam.