I have had the fortune of trying several Thistledown Wine Company Grenaches over the summer and they have demonstrated both quality winemaking and market availability. Their Thorny Devil is sourced from bush trained, dry farmed vineyards throughout McLaren Vale. The 2021 vintage shows a delicious but tart acai berry note which elevates the wine’s cranberry and pomegranate. Lighter in body, Thorny Devil is all about the explosion of flavors. For its price, this wine is a steal. I recommend serving this wine at cellar temperature. If you don’t have a wine fridge, just 40 minutes in your house’s refrigerator before opening will provide a similar effect.
Thistledown Wine Company, McLaren Vale (South Australia) Old Vine Grenache 2021
By Vince Simmon