2022 Atlas Grenache, Clare Valley

A juicy, bright and vibrant grenache that feels pure and pretty with each sip. Cherry, raspberry licorice, some green olive and sage leaf to sniff on, similar flavours with a faint hazelnut savouriness in tow. It's soft and spreads gently in the palate, a weave of barely there, powdery tannins lending some gentle shape. It finishes with a fanning tail of cherry juice sweetness. Everything just-so. Delightful drinking ensues.

93 points Special Value Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Atlas Grenache is a beautifully vibrant expression of Clare Valley red, showcasing the variety’s perfume and finesse rather than sheer power. Atlas Wines, founded by Adam Barton and Amy Lane, has built a reputation for crafting precise, terroir-driven wines from carefully selected vineyard sites. Their Grenache comes from low-yielding Clare Valley vines planted on elevated slopes, where warm days are tempered by cool nights, preserving freshness and aromatic lift in the fruit.

The Clare Valley’s mix of ancient red loam soils over limestone provides excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to support balanced vine growth. These conditions allow Grenache to ripen slowly and evenly, developing layers of red fruit and spice without excessive alcohol. The fruit is picked at optimal ripeness and handled gently, with partial whole-bunch fermentation and wild yeasts used to bring extra complexity and texture. Maturation in older French oak helps soften the tannins while keeping the fruit at centre stage.

The wine has a bright ruby colour with aromas of wild raspberry, red cherry, pomegranate, and subtle rose petals, underpinned by a touch of white pepper and savoury herbs. On the palate, it’s medium bodied and juicy, with supple tannins, vibrant red fruit, and a long, pure finish. It’s a modern, elegant take on Grenache that celebrates perfume and texture over oak and weight.

This Grenache is exceptionally food-friendly, pairing beautifully with roast duck, lamb koftas, wood-fired pizza with prosciutto, or grilled eggplant with tahini. It also works well slightly chilled on a warm day, bringing out its floral and spicy brightness. While designed for youthful drinking, it has the structure to develop added complexity over 5 to 8 years.