2024 Vanguardist Field GSM

This is the first Vanguardist Field GSM from the Pfeiffer Vineyard in Seppeltsfield – a tiny, bush-vine block planted as a true field blend by the O’Callaghan family back in 2000. It’s now farmed organically by the Vanguardist crew, and it’s pretty special stuff. The vineyard’s less than a hectare, all goblet-trained, with Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (plus a splash of Alicante Bouchet) planted side by side and picked as one.

2024 was a warm, dry year in the Barossa, and this ripened fast. The grapes came in mid-February, fully destemmed, and fermented wild on skins for five weeks before ageing in old French puncheons. No additions, no fining or filtration – just a straight-up, honest reflection of the site.

The result is light-ish in frame but full of detail – think spice, dark cherry, herbs and earth, with a bit of red-fruited crunch and that signature Vanguardist texture. Only 12% alcohol, but don’t let that fool you – this has flavour and finesse in spades. And no 2025 vintage due to frost, so best not sit on your hands.

94 points
"...around pinot weight, but the flavours are Barossan... signature house tannins carrying the finish. Do not chill this! Lovely."
- Marcus Ellis (Halliday Wine Companion)

93 points
"Poulsard via the Barossa Valley?! Supple texture... blood orange acidity... Light and yet detailed in fruit, spice, savoury, mineral notes."
- Mike Bennie (The Wine Front)

93 points
"Pretty, bright, cherry, nuts, spice and perfume... carries good length... Such a good and positive expression of GSM(+AB)... More like this."
- Gary Walsh (The Wine Front)