Planted in 1946, the old Walton Grenache block is a monument to the history of the Clare Valley. Dry-grown bush vines were planted in terra rossa soils, allowing excellent drainage at elevation and with an aspect which captures the late summer sun. This wine is a pure expression of Clare Valley Grenache. Aromas of strawberry, dark cherries (almost Cherry Ripe), cedar-spice with hints of sandalwood. The palate is silky smooth and vibrant, redolent with red cherries, red plums, blood orange and chocolate. The finish is long, expressive and youthful. Plenty behind it to cellar into the medium term and possibly more. "Youthful, vibrant red in the glass. Exotic aromas of five spice, cola, blueberry, dried herbs and red cherry. Flavours are mid-weighted, rich and fleshy. There’s plenty of red and blue fruit drive, supple and caressing tannins and bouncy, zingy acidity keeping all in check. Lovely, expressive grenache here, layers of flavour and a decent whack of complexity... 95pts" (Aaron Brasher, The Real Review).

Between Rhône and Provence, Ventoux takes its name from the imposing mountain which forms the backdrop to its ancient vineyards. Its footslopes provide ideal terroir for growing exceptional quality grapes, a fact first recognised by the Perrin family over 40 years ago when they discovered this sandy (safres) plot. As the Ventoux name implies, it's a windy region and, coupled with the height of vineyards, the area’s red wines have “a kind of mountain coolness and freshness” (Andrew Jefford). This is a terrific wine from the 5th-generation Perrin family, the leading organic producer of the southern Rhône. Using a classic blend of grapes, it's a vibrant red with scents of herbal fruit and tobacco. Ideal with lamb kebabs or roast squash pilaf.

There's always fun to be had when a member of the Pig family comes calling. This delicious 'cousin' is a succulent pink as good on the lips and tongue as it is on the eye. Lovely to look at, great aromas of ripe Summer fruits, and every bit as satisfying on the palate. Sip on its own, with fresh prawns or even a fresh fruit salad. It's delicious.

There is something very special about Grenache, and here are a dozen beautiful wines to prove it. Enjoy two Grenache blends from France – one the mighty Cabalié Coup de Coeur from Maury in the Languedoc home to “thunderously powerful Grenache” (Andrew Jefford), and then a jewel-like Côtes du Rhône which includes spicy Shiraz and fruity Mourvèdre in the mix. Delicious! Then, come home for four pure Grenache stars from McLaren Vale, Clare and more. These are gorgeous! (Literally gorgeous, in the case of 5 Red Star Thistledown’s silky, old vine drop!)

There’s bundles of flavour in this classy Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvédre. A special blend that offers soft layers of fruit, and rich and velvety charm – The Black Pig delivers again!