2021 Schwarz Wine Co Meta Grenache, Barossa Valley

Sourced from the Thiele Road grenache block in Bethany (planted 1941) and a 90yo block in Marananga, 82% whole bunches and carbonic maceration. Aged 50/50% in old French oak and tank. A wonderfully light and playful take on the variety, glossy purple in the glass and pure and plummy in the mouth; perfumed, spicy, herb flecked and swift of foot, it cuts a great palate line, can take a brief chill and provides great enjoyment.

93 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Schwarz Wine Co Meta Grenache is a pure, expressive take on Barossa Valley Grenache that leans into perfume, spice and texture rather than sheer weight. Sourced from old vine Barossa vineyards, this wine reflects Grenache grown on sandy and loamy soils that naturally temper power and highlight aromatic detail. Warm days bring flavour and generosity, while cool nights help retain freshness and shape, giving the wine its balance and lift.

Schwarz Wine Co is led by Jason Schwarz, a sixth generation Barossan whose deep farming roots underpin everything he does. Meta Grenache is very much about vineyard expression and minimal interference. Old vines, careful hand harvesting and gentle extraction allow Grenache to show its finer side. Oak is used sparingly and thoughtfully, supporting the wine’s structure without masking fruit or site character.

In the glass, the wine is fragrant and inviting. Red cherry, raspberry and strawberry lead, followed by rose petal, dried herbs and white pepper. There is a subtle earthy note underneath that adds complexity and a distinctly Barossa savoury edge without tipping into heaviness.

On the palate, Schwarz Meta Grenache is medium bodied, supple and beautifully textured. Juicy red fruit flows easily through the mid palate, supported by fresh acidity and fine, sandy tannins that give shape and length. The wine feels energetic and composed, finishing dry and gently spicy with lingering red fruit and savoury notes.

This is a Grenache made for food and conversation. It pairs beautifully with roast lamb, pork, charcuterie, Mediterranean dishes or grilled vegetables. Drinking very well now for its vibrancy and charm, it will also cellar comfortably over five to eight years, developing more savoury and earthy complexity.

Schwarz Wine Co Meta Grenache is elegant, honest and deeply Barossan. A modern Grenache that respects old vines, highlights finesse and proves just how expressive Barossa Grenache can be.