2023 Thistledown Gorgeous Grenache, South Australia

Riverland and McLaren Vale. All older vines, small batch ferments, some whole bunch, old oak. The first of the flotilla of Thistledown grenache bottlings. The everyday wine. You can bank that Giles Cooke sees it differently. It’s the greeting at the door, first impressions and all that. Sometimes the humblest wines need to be nailed to the nth degree. This does that, roiling with grenache flavour, fleshy but vibrant. Raspberry, maraschino, red licorice and some dark cherry fringed with dried Mediterranean herbs, red florals and peppery spice in a mid-weight tenor. It’s a gateway drug for the grenache neophyte, or just a great drink. Though some may be tempted, it’s best not chilled.

91 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecopanion.com.au

From carefully selected old vine sites across South Australia, Thistledown Gorgeous Grenache captures the modern renaissance of this once overlooked variety. Founded by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan, the project focuses on sourcing exceptional fruit from regions like McLaren Vale and the Barossa, crafting wines that emphasise perfume, purity and drinkability. The 2023 vintage highlights their signature style beautifully, offering vibrant fruit expression with a light touch and finely tuned structure.

A brilliant ruby crimson with youthful translucency glows in the glass. Aromas burst forward with wild raspberry, red cherry and strawberry compote layered with rose petal, white pepper and hints of dried herbs and spice. There is an irresistible lift and brightness here, capturing Grenache’s naturally joyful personality.

The palate is supple and energetic, flowing with juicy red berry fruit, pomegranate and subtle savoury nuance framed by fine tannins and fresh acidity. Gentle notes of spice and mineral detail carry through a long, graceful finish that feels both vibrant and effortless. While delicious now for its youthful charm, this Grenache will continue to evolve over the next five to eight years, gaining additional complexity and softness.

Perfect for relaxed gatherings and flavour packed plates, it shines with grilled lamb skewers, charred eggplant dishes, wood fired pizza or roast chicken with herbs. Thistledown Gorgeous Grenache brings the sunny confidence of South Australia into the glass, ideal for long lunches, shared tables and moments when easy elegance and pure drinkability take centre stage.