2022 Dune Pyla, McLaren Vale

Varieties here include nero, carignan, negroamaro, montepulciano, grenache and mourvedre. A righteous blend, reflective of the sort of wine much of Australia should be making. McLaren Vale does a good job, and this producer is an exemplar. Lilacs, pithy red cherries, dried thyme, cloves and lavender. The tannins are Mediterranean-gritty and beautifully detailed. This is a wonderful wine to drink with gusto on a daily basis. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

94 points Ned Goodwin MW jamessuckling.com

PYLA vineyard sits at the bottom of thw hillside and is planted to Nero d'Avola, Carignan, Mourvedre, and Negroamaro with smaller amounts of Montepulciano and Grenache. The varieties are handpicked and fermented with a high proportion of whole berries.  After ferment the wine is put to seasoned oak barrels for 10 months prior to bottling. 

Intensely perfumed with floral lift, sweet herbs, ripe cherry and a campari like note. The palate is long and concentrated with fine graceful tannin,  medium bodied and with great refreshment.

Dune Pyla from McLaren Vale is a Mediterranean-inspired wine crafted by brothers Duncan and Peter Lloyd, winemakers at Dune Wine Company. With a family background in winemaking and a deep respect for McLaren Vale’s warm coastal climate, the Lloyd brothers focus on creating wines that highlight the region’s unique terroir while embracing Mediterranean varieties that thrive in these conditions. Their approach to winemaking is minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of each grape and site to shine through.

Dune Pyla typically features a blend of varieties like Grenache, Mataro (Mourvèdre), and other Mediterranean grapes, resulting in a wine that is fresh, lively, and layered. Aromas of red berries, cherry, and plum are complemented by notes of dried herbs, a hint of white pepper, and earthy undertones. The palate is medium-bodied, with bright acidity and fine-grained tannins, showcasing flavors of juicy red fruit, spice, and a touch of minerality.

This wine pairs well with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, grilled meats, and charcuterie, making it versatile for both casual meals and special occasions. The Lloyd brothers’ focus on expressing McLaren Vale’s natural vibrancy shines through in this approachable, food-friendly wine.