2023 Hither & Yon Sand Road Grenache, McLaren Vale

Sand Road vineyard, planted in '09 to alluvial sands, silty clay and gravel. Destemmed and open fermented at coolish temperatures for two weeks; raised in older French puncheons. Old vines are the buzz with grenache, and for good reason, but lovingly farmed young vines can also have striking results. And the Leask brothers do nothing if not farm well. Savouriness and tannin may not be the first thing to expect from younger vines, but here they are. Dried cranberry, wild raspberry, Earl Grey tea, dusty earth, baking spices. It hits mid-weight, with no sweet spot – a good thing. Rather, the fruit is wrapped up in a food-apt tensioning of chewy grip and clean acidity. Distinctive. Good.

93 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Hither & Yon Grenache from McLaren Vale is a juicy, aromatic, and beautifully expressive red that captures the essence of old-vine Grenache grown in one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions. This is Grenache with charm and vibrancy—light on its feet, yet full of character, spice, and that signature McLaren Vale generosity.

Family-run by brothers Malcolm and Richard Leask, Hither & Yon is known for its sustainable, organic viticulture and a minimalist, vineyard-first philosophy. The Grenache is sourced from mature bush vines grown in sandy loam soils over limestone—ideal conditions for producing fragrant, medium-bodied wines with lifted red fruit and savoury complexity.

Winemaking is all about preserving the variety’s natural energy. The fruit is handpicked, gently destemmed, and fermented in small batches with minimal intervention. A short time in old oak helps soften the edges without masking the fruit, allowing the wine to retain its brightness and transparency.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of raspberry, red cherry, rose petal, and sweet spice. The palate is supple and silky, offering juicy red fruit, soft tannins, and hints of dried herbs and earth. It finishes fresh and lively, with just enough savoury grip to keep things interesting.

This is a vibrant, modern expression of McLaren Vale Grenache—perfect with grilled lamb, Mediterranean dishes, or simply enjoyed slightly chilled on a warm day.