Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Firm, focused and deft in balance, letting its tarry blackberry and dried cherry flavors ride on refined tannins, with a welcome lift of acidity on the finish, which persists impressively. Best from 2013 through 2020. 200 cases imported.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Twelftree Blewitt Springs Grenache has pronounced kirsch, red currants and mulberry aromas with touches of orange rind and Indian spices. Full bodied, opulently fruited and spicy in the mouth, it has a medium level of silky tannins and nicely balanced acid, finishing long. Drink it now to 2018+.
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.