Overview
Avatar is Teusner’s seasoned-oak interpretation of the classic Barossa blend of Grenache, Mataro and Shiraz. Originally conceived as the “older brother” to the unoaked Joshua, Avatar combines old-vine fruit with gentle oak maturation to build additional texture and complexity while keeping the focus on freshness and varietal character.
Vintage
The 2024 season combined good spring soil moisture with cool conditions through early summer, followed by a warm, dry and even ripening period. Grenache developed aromatic lift, Mataro gained savoury depth from the extended season, and Shiraz contributed plush dark-fruit weight.
Vineyard
The 2024 blend comprises 48% Grenache, 40% Mataro and 12% Shiraz, sourced from old-vine vineyards across Tanunda, Williamstown, Stone Well, Seppeltsfield and Koonunga in the Barossa Valley.
Winemaking
A small portion of whole bunch was included in one Grenache parcel, representing approximately 7% of the final blend. All batches were matured in seasoned French oak barrels of 300–500 litres for just over 12 months before blending in July 2025.
Producer Tasting Notes
“Medium-bodied yet confidently structured, Avatar 2024 opens with fragrant red berry lift, plum skin and subtle citrus florals. The Mataro signature appears as savoury notes of earth, pepper and gamey undertones, while Shiraz adds richness and dark fruit weight. The palate is bright and pure, brimming with plum and redcurrant, layered with spice, gingerbread and a whisper of sarsaparilla. Texturally, it settles into fine, pillowy tannins that glide into a long, even finish framed by natural acidity.”
Critic Reviews
95/100 — Stuart Knox, The Real Review
Tasted 12 January 2026
“Vibrant ruby red colour. Blueberry, mocha and vanilla aromas. Big and powerful, combining sweet and savoury elements.”
94/100 — The Wine Front
Tasted February 2026
Producer
Teusner Wines was founded in the Barossa Valley in 2001 by Kym Teusner and Mick Page after they stepped in to help preserve a parcel of old Grenache vines that was destined to be removed. That encounter became the foundation of a business built around long-standing relationships with Barossa growers and the preservation of mature vineyards.
Grenache, Mataro and Shiraz remain central to the Teusner range, with the wines shaped to highlight old-vine fruit, regional character and a balance of generosity, freshness and savoury detail.
Specifications
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Vintage: 2024
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Producer: Teusner Wines
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Country: Australia
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Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
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Grape Variety: 48% Grenache, 40% Mataro, 12% Shiraz
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Sub-Regions: Tanunda, Williamstown, Stone Well, Seppeltsfield and Koonunga
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Vine Age: Old Vine
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Wine Style: Red Wine
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Alcohol: 14.9%
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pH: 3.42
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Total Acidity: 6.6g/L
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Whole Bunch: Approximately 7% of the final blend
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Maturation: Just over 12 months in seasoned French oak, 300–500L
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Cellaring: 10+ years
