Vanguardist OENO McLaren Vale Grenache
Thistledown Thorny Devil McLaren Vale Grenache
Ministry of Clouds Grenache
After almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label. This stellar example of Grenache is comprised 8 different Grenache ferments with varying amounts of whole bunch ranging from a couple of whole berry ferments to the highest being 28% whole bunch, skin time varying between 3 to 6 weeks. The 8 ferments are off four vineyards - three of which all neighbour each other in Blewitt Springs. One planted in 1930, another in 1939 and the last is believed to be planted in 1940s. These 3 vineyards make up 82% of the blend. The last component is from the oldest part of the Smart vineyard in Clarendon planted in 1920. Maturation took place in large old oak for 6 months. A Grenache of phenomenal intensity and power. Vibrant dark red coloured core with black shaded edges and a light purple red hue. Wafting from the glass with a perfumed like intensity are intoxicating aromas of dark raspberries, ripe cherries and red liquorice that are infused with an intriguing mix of fresh herbs and rose petals. Subtle vanillin earth and spice notes are also evident. Carrying only light to medium body, the palate has a power without weight quality, juicy dark raspberry, red liquorice and red cherry fruits unfolding like a never ending peacocks tail to deliver superb depth. Magnificent purity of fruit and with its concentration on another level. Lingering underneath are some vanillin confectionary, earth and subtle spicy pepper characters. Fresh acidity and a sturdy matrix of tannins provide a fine boned structure. Concludes with an explosively long, succulently fruited finish. Drink over the next 6-8 years. Alc. 14.7%
Oliver's Taranga Vineyards Grenache
Olivers Taranga have access to some rare old vine Grenache fruit from their Taranga vineyards and they make the most of them with this quite brilliant McLaren Vale Grenache. The perfect balance between the lively, fresh and fruit driven aspect of the variety and an earthy savoury backbone that completes this wine perfectly. Always made in small batches to increase the quality and concentration, don't miss out on this stand-out Grenache from a region that specialises in it.
Kay Brothers Amery Vineyards Basket Pressed Grenache
Kay Brothers from McLaren Vale tread that delightful line between tradition and innovation perfectly. A rich and deep history in the region has seen them settle on some of best vineyard land in the region which helps produce juicy, pleasure-filled wines like this Basket Pressed Grenache. Lifted colours of purple and dark crimson in the glass give a preview to the layers of brambly fruit on the nose. Copious amounts of plush redcurrants and raspberry on the palate with a silken mouthfeel due to elegant tannin and bright acidity.
Hither & Yon Nero d'Avola
Sherrah Nero d'Avola
Sherrah Shiraz
Curtis Cavaliere McLaren Vale GSM
Wonderfully composed and sweetly fragrant, the wine shows mixed berry compote, Black Doris plum, cocoa and toasted nut characters on the nose with subtle spicy complexity. The palate is succulent and plush, offering excellent weight and fleshy mouthfeel, leading to an impressively long silky finish. Harmonious and immensely appealing. At its best: now to 2026.
Beresford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Full, rich, well-structured displaying blackcurrant, mulberry and raspberry fruit characters. Beresford Estate MLV Cabernet Sauvignon displays great length and depth of flavour supported by subtle, well integrated oak and fine tannins.