2022 Clos Clare Grenache a Cote Clos, Clare Valley

Beautifully poised grenache, set to medium weight, shimmering with fine, lacy tannins, succulent in texture with a general sense of crunchy red-berry fruitiness as an overarching theme. Very fragrant, rosehip tea meets cranberry, with sprigs of minty herbal lift and faint violet florals. Almost a thirst-quenching nature to this red. Vibrant, bright and delicious overall.

93 points Special Value Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Clos Clare Grenache à Côté from the Clare Valley is a small-batch gem that celebrates both site and grape with serious charm and drinkability. Made by the Barry brothers, Tom and Sam, from a single plot within the famed Armagh subregion, this wine is their tribute to old-vine Grenache and its Rhône roots, with a distinctly Clare Valley accent.

The vineyard sits on terra rossa over limestone, the same prized soils that underpin many of Clare's greatest reds. These well-drained, mineral-rich soils give the Grenache structure and freshness, while the warm days and cool nights of the region allow for full ripeness and vibrant acidity. The result is a beautifully lifted wine full of red berries, spice, and savoury herb notes, wrapped around silky tannins and subtle oak.

It’s light on its feet but not short on complexity. Think raspberry, wild strawberry, dried rose petal, and thyme, finishing with a touch of white pepper and a whisper of earth. Fermented with wild yeasts and aged in old French oak, it’s made with minimal intervention to let the fruit and terroir sing.

Drink it slightly chilled with chargrilled lamb, slow-roasted eggplant or duck with pomegranate. You can enjoy it now for its juicy brightness or cellar for up to 6 years for added depth.