2023 Coriole Sandalwood Grenache Gris Piquepoul, McLaren Vale

50/45/5% grenache gris/piquepoul/clairette from the Sandalwood vineyard, a later ripening site in the McLaren Flat foothills. Pressed to concrete for co-fermentation, then racked off heavy lees and returned for nine months élevage. Such an exuberantly expressive nose at pitch-perfect ripeness, with rosy skinned apples, lemon balm, raw quince, orange peel and tart pomelo. Tension defines the palate, with vigorous natural acidity and a moreish netting of pithiness combined with a gravelly minerality to deliver this dry, sapid and deeply layered. Stunning!

95 points Special Value Marcus Eliis winecompanion.com.au Top 100 2024

Coriole’s Sandalwood Grenache Gris Piquepoul from McLaren Vale is one of those fascinating blends that shows just how adventurous and creative this region has become. Coriole has long been a pioneer in planting Mediterranean varieties in South Australia, and the Sandalwood vineyard, set in the rolling foothills of the Vale with ironstone soils and cooling sea breezes, has become a proving ground for exciting small-batch wines. This unusual combination of Grenache Gris and Piquepoul creates something truly distinctive: textured, refreshing, and utterly food-friendly.

In the glass it shines pale straw with glints of silver and green. The nose is fragrant and inviting, with notes of pear, citrus blossom, green apple, and white peach alongside hints of almond, fennel seed, and sea spray. The palate is vibrant and textural, showing the orchard fruits and citrus zest of Piquepoul balanced by the fleshier weight and spice of Grenache Gris. Crisp acidity gives it energy and drive, finishing with a savoury, mineral edge that lingers. It’s a wine that feels Mediterranean at heart but with a McLaren Vale accent.

Food pairings play beautifully with its freshness and subtle savoury depth. Think grilled sardines with lemon, chicken souvlaki with yoghurt dressing, salt and pepper squid, or summer salads with fresh herbs and citrus. It’s the perfect white for long alfresco lunches, and while it will drink best in its youth, it has enough texture to age gracefully for 3 to 5 years.

Coriole is well known for introducing Sangiovese and Fiano to McLaren Vale decades before they became fashionable, and this wine continues that spirit of innovation. Production is small, making it a rare find and a favourite of adventurous wine drinkers and sommeliers who love to showcase something different. It’s a conversation piece in the glass and an excellent value compared to comparable Mediterranean-inspired blends.