Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2006 Grenache was sourced from 45- and 80-year-old McLaren Vale vineyards and aged for 17 months in French oak, only 15% new. Medium ruby-colored, it offers up a fragrant perfume of kirsch, cassis, cherry, and earth notes. Full-bodied (16.5% alcohol), plush, layered, and forward, this savory Grenache will drink well over the next eight years.
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.