\McLaren Vale
Variety: Grenache
What's in the glass: This is matured in two 22HL Slavonian foudre, which are now seven years old. Two thirds whole bunch. From the Rende Vineyard in Blewitt Springs, which is now over 55 years old. This is a lighter, more frisky expression of Vanguardist Grenache, in the way of 2023, though with a bit more oomph, but less richness, tannin and stuffing than, say, 2019 and 2021. Not a comment on quality, more a guide to style.
Raspberry, cherry, almond, spice, slight liquorice richness, dried roses. Medium-bodied, spicy, cherry and raspberry, savoury and gently earthy, a fine grainy richness to tannin, a cranberry freshness to acidity, with a nutty strawberry and spice finish of excellent length. Wonderful finesse and perfume here. Give it a couple more years to come up. 96 POINTS GARY WALSH
Farming: Organic (non-certified)
Vegan Friendly: Yes
