Introducing the debut release of Steve Pannell's new baby, the stunning 2022 Little Branch Grenache. Pannell purchased this gem of a vineyard in the Blewitt Springs dress-circle 2021, which boasts ancient Maslin Beach sands and 30-year-old vines. These vines, combined with the unique ironstone-flecked soils at 140 meters above sea level, bring a lot of character to this wine. As always, Pannell employs traditional techniques like whole bunch fermentation and aging in old French oak vats. The wine is fermented with a small percentage of whole clusters and left on skins for 13 days before being pressed and matured. This hands-off approach really lets the vineyard’s natural qualities shine through. When you take a sip, you’re hit with bright red fruits like raspberry and strawberry, followed by a complex array of spices—cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and cassia. There’s a hint of toffee apple and spun sugar, finishing with musk and rose oil. The texture is smooth and sophisticated, with stealthy tannins that build up slowly, leaving a lasting impression. A remarkable first Little Branch release from Steve, and surely a wine to watch and collect for many years to come. Extremely limited. 97 points"This is an impactful grenache made by somebody who prizes Italian wines. The tannins are an immense force field, with kirsch, strawberries and dried Mediterranean herbs, and a note of almond husk that gives noble bitterness. The density, poise and grace are thoroughly impressive. This is a structured grenache built for the cellar."- Ned Goodwin (James Suckling)