2019 Paxton Thomas Block Grenache Biodynamic, McLaren Vale

Thomas Block is one of Paxton's flagship single vineyard wines, sourced from a remarkable parcel of old vine Grenache that highlights the elegance and complexity this variety can achieve in McLaren Vale. A pioneer of biodynamic farming in Australia, the Paxton family has spent decades nurturing healthier soils and vines, allowing each wine to express its vineyard with purity, balance and authenticity. The previous vintage was recognised with 96 points and featured in the Top 100 wines of the James Halliday Wine Companion, reflecting the exceptional quality and pedigree of this vineyard expression.

The Thomas Block Vineyard is planted on ancient sandy soils over ironstone, where mature Grenache vines produce naturally low yields of intensely flavoured fruit. Biodynamic farming, hand harvesting and gentle winemaking preserve the vineyard's perfume and vitality, resulting in a wine that combines generosity with freshness and remarkable finesse.

The colour is a brilliant ruby crimson with youthful garnet highlights. Fragrant aromas of wild raspberry, red cherry and blood plum are complemented by rose petals, star anise and hints of dried herbs. The palate is silky and beautifully detailed, carrying vibrant red berry fruit through fine tannins and bright natural acidity. Subtle notes of earthy spice, crushed stone and savoury herbs linger across a long, graceful finish that reflects the pedigree of this outstanding vineyard.

A magnificent match for roast lamb shoulder, grilled duck breast, wood fired pizza, charred eggplant with tahini or wild mushroom pappardelle. Drinking beautifully now, this biodynamic Grenache will continue to evolve gracefully for another ten to fifteen years.