Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2005 Grenache Kangarilla Vineyard is the most overtly fruity and flamboyant of the Grenache offerings. It offers up gobs of black raspberry and black cherry aromas and flavors in its layered, full-bodied personality. There are well concealed tannins which will allow it to have an extended drinking window of 10-15 years although it can be enjoyed now.
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Wine Enthusiast
With a bouquet reminiscent of plum pudding and dense, almost fudge-like flavors, this may be a slightly controversial wine. It's full bodied and richly textured, with chocolate and plum flavors that linger a long time on the finish. Drink now–2012, perhaps longer.
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Wine Spectator
Lithe and delicately spicy, with boysenberry and cherry notes mingling smoothly on the finish. The fine tannins lend just enough support, hinting at sandalwood as this lingers well. Drink now through 2015. 500 cases imported.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.