2015 Clarendon Hills Onkaparinga Grenache, Purpled crimson. Magically entwined with elegant hints of cherry, raspberry, terracotta, cocoa, walnut, and Turkish delight. The flourishing perfume continues to rise with an ever-present core appearing as the seamless spine. Harmoniously, these characters gracefully nuance, reinforce and offer evolution. A harmonious composition of spice, fruit, glycerin and chalky velvet produce an aristocratic experience that is nearly limitless in its depth of expression. The palate is bright and taught with natural acid however it is incredibly layered and deeply concentrated with silky smooth extract. The impressive purity of the fruit, alone , ushers superlatives however it is the fine boned and seamlessly structured palate, coupled with an air of effortless power that remains the most haunting element to this exceptional old vine Grenache.

This small batch Grenache from McLaren Vale was a combination of three unique vineyards with different fermentation methods to create a wine with layers and complexity. It was handcrafted to produce a wine portraying the gently sloping sandy loam landscape with tranquil tree lined creek peaceful vineyard views in which it is grown. This refined and elegant, yet bold McLaren Vale Grenache was produced to showcase one of McLaren Vales greatest varietals. It uses small amounts of wholebunch in the ferment to lift the spiciness of the wine and reign in the richness. A portion of carbonic maceration adds lift and fragrance while the balance destemmed only gives power and drive. Blackcurrant, plums and hints of raspberries are entwined with spice and pepper notes. Well balanced acidity and refined velvety tannins combine with generous fruit length to create a comp.

This wine forms part of Clarendon Hills 'Grand Cru' classification and is the ultimate expression of Grenache for the winery. Something to keep an eye on over the next 20 years.

WORLDS APART WINES Blewitt Springs Grown on Sands Made With Whole Bunches Grenache, McLaren Vale

The McLaren Vale can be considered the true home of Grenache blends here in Australia witho some of the oldest vines in the world being dry grown there. Steve Maglieri's Serafino label provides a rich and delicious GSM blend a nose of rose petal and tobacco. The palate flows on with dense coffee and cedar notes that glide across the tongue.

The nose is teeming with red fruits and florals.Raspberry and cherry with a hint rose and violet. The true giveaways to the vintage however, lie in the distinct white pepper and spice notes. The palate follows suit with bright red fruit and spice.

While certainly lighter, more elegant, and a different style to that of some of previous years, the 2011 vintage is one of the greatest Grenache vintages Yangarra has ever produced. The white pepper spice is telling of such a cool year, and is married with bright cherries and raspberry alongside complex hints of liquorice, chicory and cured meats. The tannins are fine and delicate, and the acidity alike.