66 year-old dry farmed, free standing bush vines can tell a story of the vintage when handled with care, and this Grenache from Yangarra spins a beautiful tale of one of the coolest, wettest years ever in McLaren Vale. Low yields and careful bunch selection to sort out rot and mold have produced a brilliant ruby red wine with aromas of cherry, raspberry, white pepper and fennel. Vibrant acidity helps translate the aromas directly into flavors on the palate, and keeps things lively through the long, zesty finish. It’s really begging for food — I’d go for lamb. Nicely done!
Yangarra Estate Vineyard, McLaren Vale (Australia) Grenache 2011
By Rich Cook