Small Gully The Formula Wine Review

Natalie's Score: 96/100

"The brilliant 2021 vintage in the Barossa strikes again. How many stunning wines have we seen from it? They won’t last forever, so make certain your cellar is well stocked. This is an example of the famous Aussie red blend of Shiraz and Cabernet. What is perhaps the least obvious about this wine is just how well balanced everything is. Flavour, oak, tannins, alcohol – it is all just perfectly in harmony. I say least obvious as if it was not then you’d know it. This is also a big wine in every way. An opaque maroon in colour, the nose gives us notes of blackberries, aniseed, plums, chocolate, dried herbs and black fruits. There is excellent oak integration, as well as focus and energy, power and richness. Despite all that, the wine is approachable and yet maintains its intensity. There is seriously impressive length to the wine as well. This can be enjoyed over the next ten to fifteen years, longer if you wish." - (95 points - Winepilot) NEW: Small Gully blends Shiraz and Cabernet from a Barossa vintage that's already earning a reputation among collectors. Blackberry and dark plum carry the fruit, with a thread of cocoa and warm baking spice underneath. The oak is folded in well, keeping the wine focused despite its richness. It's got real presence without ever feeling like too much of a good thing, the kind of balance Barossa winemakers spend years chasing. Pour it with slow-roasted lamb or a well-charred ribeye.

Food pairings: slow-roasted lamb with herbs, smoky BBQ pork ribs, aged hard cheese.

Luscious Lamb Wine

Natalie MacLean reviewed this Small Gully The Formula for the Vintages release of December 19, 2026.

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Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.