2021 d'Arenberg The Custodian Grenache, McLaren Vale

Rugged, earthy and savoury, bound with chewy tannin, flecked with iron-like minerals, crackling-dry laurel leaves and dried red fruits. This is not bowing to the modern trend for more lithe fragrant expressions of the grape, but nor is it occluding varietal integrity; it’s just a more craggy, structured, dry-toned take. If that’s your style, the value is keen.

89 points Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Small batches of grapes are gently crushed and then transferred to open fermenters. Foot treading is undertaken two thirds of  the way through fermentation, the wine is basket pressed and ransferred to old French oak to complete fermentation and mature.

The barrel ferments are aged on lees, and there is no racking until final blending. This wine does not undertake fining or filtration prior to bottling.

A light rendition of Grenache that delivers in every aspect. The bouquet is predominantly red fruits like cherry and raspberries. The palate follows suit. An ocean of red fruits like sour cherries, raspberries, pomegranate and a slightly touch of more complex darker fruit. Everything is sitting on a web of fresh fruit, herbal character, lively acidity and glossy tannins. Enjoy now.