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.

Xavier Vignon is one of the top consultant winemakers in the south of France. He used to be a master champagne blender (so he knows a thing or two about constructing wines) but now lives in the Rhône Valley from where he visits around 300 estates to advise them on viticulture and vinification. Xavier is a great enthusiast of blending and is always on the lookout for terroirs with potential as he works with creative freedom to produce top wines. The result is a collection of wines adding a modern touch to the pure essence of Rhône wines. With this bottling of carefully selected grapes from very old vines, Xavier uses only certified organic farmed fruit and vegan production practices to handcraft the finest environmentally sensitive wine. Plump and fruity, this Grenache-dominant blend offers a sunny attack bursting with luscious blackberry and blueberry flavors (with the velvety nature of Grenache (85%) against Syrah (5%) & Mourvèdre's (10%) vitality and perfume. It's an unctuous, fruity wine cushioned by soft acidity and feathery tannins. Immediately enjoyable.

Pretty and immediately expressive, multi layered aromas of raspberry, dried cherries, lifted spices and rhubarb.Medium bodied with layers of tannins and savoury earthy flavours balanced with a textured waves of spicy fruit. Complex, soft on the palate with a fineness and elegance counter balanced with generosity and depth of texture that speaks of it’s munda (land or country).

Domaine Pierre Usseglio et Fils is located in the village of Châteauneuf du Pape, has built a solid reputation over the years as producing rich, ripe red wines, so it's interesting to see that Thierry Usseglio and his son, Gregory, are experimenting with the use of whole bunches and an entirely new wine style that combines a large proportion of white grapes and use of amphorae. 100% Grenache from vineyards in Les Serres, Les Bédines and La Crau. Partially destemmed with 3-5 week concrete vat vinification, with aging occurring in aged 80-90% concrete vats and 10-20% oak casks for 12-14 months.

Domaine Pierre Usseglio et Fils is located in the village of Châteauneuf du Pape, has built a solid reputation over the years as producing rich, ripe red wines, so it's interesting to see that Thierry Usseglio and his son, Gregory, are experimenting with the use of whole bunches and an entirely new wine style that combines a large proportion of white grapes and use of amphorae. A wine you don’t see often (there’s only one barrel made), the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Not For You is 100% Grenache from the 100+ year old vines in the Les Serres lieu-dit, only made in the best vintages, 100% Grenache, mostly destemmed, with 3-5 week concrete vat vinification, before being aged in new 600-litre oak casks 24 months. An array of red and black fruits, pepper, lavender and spicy oak. Incredibly unique, full-bodied and concentrated.

David & Nadia are two new age winemakers who are making waves across the world. Pretty impressive considering the (very) small volumes they make, each bottle as pristine as the next. Their sustainably farmed vineyard in South Africa is planted in deep, clay soils, allowing their old vines to grow flourished. Perfumed with flowers and rich notes of red berries, this Swartland treasure is smooth and gentle. Red fruit forward, its palate is balanced with earthy notes and a little touch of truffle and vanilla. This wine is just light enough to be drunk with lunch and we suggest to pair it with the fanciest charcuterie platter you can whip up. We’re talking all the imported cheeses and meats you can’t pronounce. Add a little bit of raw honeycomb and fresh strawberries and you’ve got yourself a great time.

Juicy, with red and black fruits, blood orange and herbaceous flavours with natural acidity and a smooth finish.

The southern Rhône’s cru villages deliver remarkable richness as well as value – all nine of them well worth discovering. One of the best is Vacqueyras, the village watched over by the towering Dentelles de Montmirail (google and you'll find some impressive images of these iconic rugged landmarks) . Cuvée Préstigieux is from the Guillot family. In 1911, great grandfather of the current owner forsook his birthplace of Burgundy and headed south to the Rhône valley. There he bought his first vineyard. Today, Laurent Guillot is in charge, working the family plots both in Burgundy and the southern Rhône. This Cuvée Préstigieux is a full-bodied style with ripe raspberry fruit from the Grenache, while the Syrah brings herbal aromas and blackberry and a touch of Mourvèdre adds spice. Ace with roast lamb or a rich casserole.