Winemaker Notes
The Vagabond draws its fruit from the unique sub-region of Blewitt Springs - a region characterized by a raised elevation and distinct deep sandy soils dotted with ironstone. These ancient soils provide the perfect medium for Grenache to thrive. It is here that Grenache is at its fragrant, textural best - exhibiting beautiful balance, floral, dried citrus character and amazing length. Gently vinified with minimal intervention.
Professional Ratings
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Decanter
From old Blewitt Springs’ bush vines on deep sand, with some ironstone. Fermented using whole bunch, whole berry and crushed fruit, then aged in concrete eggs and oak. It has a lively, citrussy undertow and fine rub of sandpapery tannins to the fragrant red cherry and raspberry fruit. Violets, anise spice and fresh acidity make for a long, lifted finish.
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James Suckling
This grenache shows good energy and focus with vibrant dark berries, strewn across underlying citrus character. Juicy and succulent with lithe tannins, this is a very drinkable, medium-bodied wine. Drink now.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Sourced from two vineyards in Blewitt Springs and vinified in concrete eggs with 50% whole clusters, Thistledown's 2018 The Vagabond Old Vine Grenache features bright cherry, raspberry and red currant fruit. It's medium to full-bodied but taut and tart, with firm tannins and a long finish. It's a Grenache that could use a bit of time to settle down, then drink well for up to a decade.
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.