Stonegarden Northwest Grenache 2021

From vines planted in 1858 and 1854. This is really something, framed by cashmere tannins that run long, from beginning to end. Super aromatic, as with all the wines, a compote of fennel, aniseed, blackberry, blackcurrant, rhubarb, smoke and earth. Fresh and vibrant, very fine, with soft bones of structure and vivid red fruits on the palate. Purring and elegant,the length of flavour lasting minutes. One of my favourite Grenache of 2024 thus far. Waters Wine Co

 

Of the two blocks planted at Stonegarden in 1858 the Northwest block of Grenache is the purer. It’s almost 100% Grenache, with the odd Mataro vine here and there. We harvested this block relatively early when the natural acidity is more reminiscent of a white wine and the flavours of the grapes are shouting rose petals and red musk fruits.

The resulting wine maintains its fresh fruit crunch and zing with a relatively low alcohol of 13.8%. Time in large 500-litre French oak barrels and ceramic “eggs” (700L egg shaped ceramic wine vats.) have massaged and integrated the stalky tannins from whole bunch ferments to reveal a wine with precision and spicy exuberance. Winemaker’s Notes

 

96 Points – Gary Walsh, The Winefront