Description
The 2022 Backlit is a wonderfully distinctive red from Adelaida District, bringing together five Rhône and Mediterranean varieties to create a wine of real depth and character. The blend of Syrah, Petite Sirah, Carignan, Mourvèdre and Grenache gives it a fascinating combination of dark fruit, savoury complexity and spice, while the high-elevation vineyards of the Maha Estate bring freshness and structure beneath the richness.
There is plenty to discover in the glass. Dark blackberry and blue fruit sit alongside dried violet, lavender and citrus zest, with more savoury notes of chaparral, fennel, graphite and grilled shiitake adding complexity. On the palate, the wine is generous and full-bodied, but there is a lovely sense of restraint beneath the fruit, with fine tannins and mineral freshness carrying the wine through to a long, spicy finish.
The wine was aged for 22 months in French oak, with a proportion of new barrels adding texture and subtle spice without overwhelming the character of the fruit.
Already compelling, the 2022 Backlit has the concentration and structure to develop beautifully over the coming years. A layered, characterful red with plenty of personality and a strong sense of its Californian home.
Awarded 95 points by The Wine Advocate.