RICHARD SAYS:
2020 Krondorf Founders view Grenache 14.5%
Barossa Valley, South Australia RRP $25
This winner of last year’s James Halliday Grenache Challenge proves McLaren Vale does not have a monopoly on the myriad charms of grenache (sometimes called “blue-collar Pinot Noir”). Old vines and winemaking expertise are a formidable combination that can deliver expressive, stylish wines.
Admire the bright cherry colour, then revel in fragrant exotica – raspberry, blueberry and a hint of musk. The palate showcases a gamut of red cherry and mixed red berry flavours with attractive supporting spices. This is a happily seductive package showcasing bright fruit, and the price is….silly, given the wine’s full-frontal decadence. While it can withstand some cellaring, my preference is to delight in its hedonism over the next year or two.
Conclusion – there’s careful winemaking under the surface here; there’s the inherent stuffing with this wine to match beautifully with a lamb roast; but a chicken dish with mixed mushrooms will easily satisfy another craving. Australian grenache is on a roll!
RICHARD ALSO SAYS:
2020 Paralian Grenache 14%
McLaren Vale (Blewett springs, Marmont vineyard)
This wine was another speculative online purchase for $42
My romance with modern Australian Grenache continues after a recent flying visit to McLaren Vale.
Something else! Vibrant in every way, crimson/neon colour, then straight into cherry, raspberry plus there’s an exotic incense top note. The palate ticks all my boxes; bountiful fruit with oak restraint; the tannins are ultra-fine, balanced, making this drop flat-out delicious! This wine holds years of joy ahead.
N.b. While their website has ticked over to the 2021 vintage, web explorers will find some 2020 around.
There is huge experimentation occurring with Grenache – concrete, amphora, large and old oak, whole bunch ferments; all aimed at allowing Grenache varietal expressions to thrive. Here’s a winner, and what a discovery! A winery to watch, my instant love for this wine means I’ll definitely be back for more.
Conclusion – Middle eastern spiced things – like Moroccan lamb – paired with this will be a sensation. Look for foods that can align with the floral, exotic red fruited aromatics of Grenache.
