2023 Vanguardist Grenache, McLaren Vale

The 2023 Grenache leads with all the star anise and pomegranate, graphite, petrichor and garden rose that we have come to expect both of Vanguardist and fine McLaren Vale Grenache. There is no Australian reference point for the style of Grenache that McLaren Vale is able to produce and excel in—it is detailed, aromatic and structurally fine. This has notes of sweet tobacco, crushed shells and nuances of cracked peppercorns. The season was wet and cool, and the wine here is nuanced and detailed. There are dried herbs here, but it is the chalky tannins that steal the show. Drink to 2038.

97 points Erin Larkin for The Wine Advocate, September 2025

Vanguardist-farmed Rende vineyard bush vines, around 55 years old; 60% whole bunch, with about seven weeks on skins; matured in 2200L Slavonian oak. The cool vintage has its say. Refined, fragrant and elegant, but savoury and spicy, too. Distinct nebbiolo/nerello mascalese riffs, more the latter – an increasing theme at this address. Dried cranberry and cherry, freeze-dried raspberry and orange, from dehydrated peel to the bitter orange note in amaro, chinotto, Campari … five spice, clove, green cardamom, white pepper, alpine herbs, sour plum, dried mint, pressed flowers, warm terracotta. It’s finer of feel. Is it lesser for it? Nope. It’s laden with so much flavour and etched with ultra-fine but authoritative tannins and refreshing acidity. This also opens up and holds for days, suggesting a very bright future. So individual; so stunning. Drink to 2038.

97 points & Special Value Marcus Ellis for Halliday Wine Companion, February 2025

The spiritual home of Vanguardist is the beautiful Rende vineyard in Blewitt Springs, planted by Robert Rende and his father in the late 60's. This incredible vineyard has always been dry grown, with topsoils of Maslin sands up to eight meters deep that allow roots to penetrate very deep. Michael spends a couple of days a week in this vineyard, tending to the vines with next level care. The winemaking is detail-oriented, with extended maceration, foudre and older oak  key components. All wines ferment in small one-tonne vats, creating a rich suite of wines for blending of the Botanic and V wines.

In the glass, Vanguardist Grenache is a bright, deep red with purple hues, reflecting its youthful energy. The nose is vibrant and aromatic, with a burst of red fruit—think ripe strawberries, raspberries, and cherries—along with a delicate herbal undertone and a touch of spice. There’s also a hint of earthiness that gives the wine a grounded, complex character.

On the palate, this Grenache is medium-bodied with smooth, silky tannins and a juicy, round mouthfeel. The fruit is front and center, with fresh raspberry, strawberry, and red currant dominating, while the wine’s natural acidity keeps it fresh and lively. Subtle oak influences add a touch of vanilla and spice, creating a well-rounded profile that isn’t heavy-handed. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering red fruit and a light herbal note that lingers on the palate.

Vanguardist Grenache is a food-friendly wine that pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. It’s fantastic with grilled meats like lamb or pork, as well as Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or meaty stews. It also complements fresh pasta with tomato-based sauces, charcuterie, and cheeses like goat cheese or Pecorino. Whether enjoyed casually or paired with food, this Grenache is an elegant and approachable expression of Blewitt Springs’ unique terroir.