2023 Old Vine Grenache
These gnarly strugglers were planted in 1946 in a deep sandy dune we call The Beach, overlying the North Maslin Sands geological formation. The Old Vine Grenache is a complex, perfumed and elegant wine with a trademark tannin structure.
96 POINTS - Marcus Ellis,Halliday Wine Companion, Aug 2024
95 POINTS - Campbell Mattinson,The Wine Front, Sep 2024
95 POINTS - Ray Jordan,Winepilot, Oct 2024
95 POINTS - Ryan Montgomery,JamesSuckling.com, Jan 2025
VINTAGE SUMMARY
The growing season began with significantly higher than average rainfall. The cool, wet conditions continued through Spring, setting us up for balanced canopies and lower yields. La Niña weather patterns forecast cooler temperatures and continued rainfall for harvest. We were able to enhance vineyard practices such as shoot thinning and leaf removal to promote airflow, reduce mildew and increase sun exposure to bunches. From our experience, a cold vintage in a warm region can produce some of the best wines. Due to the cultural practices implemented, we were able to pick the majority of the vineyard in a three-week window prior to Easter, completed in early April. Wines produced from this vintage will be some of the prettiest and most delicate from the Estate.
WINEMAKING
Sourced exclusively from 13.3 hectares of un-irrigated bush vines planted in 1946. Hand-picked between 17-24th March, selectively sorted in the winery. Gently destemmed, 50% crushed, 50% whole berries retained. Wild yeast fermentation in stainless steel. A very gentle pump over regime, often just wetting the cap. Some extended macerating where taming or polishing of tannin required and in some cases up to 7 months. No pressings used. Maturation in a mixture of old French and Austrian oak foudre and puncheons, ceramic egg and amphora. Certified Organic/Biodynamic. Bottled February 2024.
Tasting Notes
Technical
