De Bortoli Rutherglen Estate Tempranillo 2023 is a savoury, medium-weight dry red from one of North East Victoria’s most respected wine families — grown on the De Bortoli Tuileries and Melville’s vineyards in Rutherglen, and crafted by Winemaker Marc Scalzo to express the hallmark character of the variety. Deep and dark with vibrant red hues, aromas of black cherry, dried herbs, and nuances of oak spice follow through on the palate, framed by Tempranillo’s characteristic grainy tannins and a satisfying savoury finish. Aged in older French and American oak for softness and roundness without domination. Vegan and vegetarian friendly. Cellar 2–10 years.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep and dark with vibrant red hues — the rich, inviting colour of a Rutherglen Tempranillo grown on the gravel, clay, and alluvial soils of the De Bortoli Tuileries and Melville’s vineyards, with the depth and concentration that Marc Scalzo’s careful cap management and cold soak deliver.
Aroma
Black cherry, dried herbs, and nuances of oak spice — the savoury, characterful bouquet of a Rutherglen Tempranillo crafted to express the variety’s hallmark personality, with the bright, vibrant fruit profile that cold soaking prior to fermentation preserves.
Palate
Medium weight and savoury — black cherry, dried herbs, and oak spice following through from the nose, with Tempranillo’s hallmark grainy tannins providing structure and a satisfying savoury finish. Older French and American oak adding softness and roundness without dominating the wine.
Pairs With
A natural companion for Mediterranean foods — lamb, chorizo, paella, slow-braised beef, charcuterie, and aged manchego — equally rewarding now and will develop further complexity over 2–10 years in the cellar.
Finish
Savoury and satisfying — black cherry, dried herbs, and grainy tannins fading cleanly and invitingly, leaving a dry, characterful close that speaks to the quality of the Rutherglen terroir and Marc Scalzo’s commitment to varietal definition.
Awards
2025 Alternative Varieties Wine Show — Silver Medal
2024 Sydney Wine Show — Silver Medal
Reviews
“Medium depth ruby colour. The nose is dusty with light, syrupy fruit aroma underneath and hints of licorice and earth. The palate is simple, light in intensity and dry-finishing.”
— The Real Review, July 2024
