2023 Greenock Creek Cornerstone Grenache, Barossa Valley

Old bush-vine grenache from Marananga, bright crimson in the glass and packed with characters of raspberry, red plum and cranberry fruits along with hints of ginger cake, exotic spice, orange blossom, dried citrus peel and earth. Bright, compact, fresh and delicious, with fine, powdery tannin, abundant energy and a real ease of drinking.

93 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

From the warm, ancient soils of the Barossa Valley, Greenock Creek Cornerstone Grenache delivers a bold yet beautifully detailed expression of old vine fruit and traditional Barossa generosity. The winery, founded by Michael Waugh and Stuart Hooper in the 1980s, quickly gained cult status for powerful, low yielding wines sourced from prized vineyard sites around Greenock. Grenache thrives in this Mediterranean climate, producing wines of plush fruit, spice and surprising structural finesse when handled with care.

A deep ruby crimson with garnet flashes fills the glass. Aromas unfold with ripe raspberry, dark cherry and plum layered with liquorice, baking spice and subtle earthy warmth. There is an unmistakable Barossa richness to the bouquet, generous yet lifted by savoury nuance.

The palate is medium to full bodied and flowing, delivering juicy red and dark berry fruit framed by fine, powdery tannins and balanced acidity. Notes of dried herbs, cocoa and gentle spice build through the mid palate, leading to a long, warming finish that feels both expressive and composed. While immediately appealing for its fruit intensity, this Grenache will continue to gain complexity over eight to twelve years as deeper savoury tones and leather nuance emerge.

Charred lamb cutlets coming off the grill, slow cooked tomato dishes passed around the table, or wood fired pizza shared under soft evening light. A record like Queens of the Stone Age Like Clockwork or something sun baked from The Black Keys setting the tempo, the wine bringing Barossa warmth and energy into the room.