2024 Dune Cactus Canyon Grenache, McLaren Vale

Dune Cactus Canyon Grenache from McLaren Vale is a fun, bold, and expressive wine that perfectly captures the spirit of one of Australia’s most iconic wine regions. McLaren Vale, known for its sunny, Mediterranean climate, is ideal for producing rich, fruit-forward Grenache, and Dune Wines has nailed it with their Cactus Canyon Grenache. The winery, known for its focus on high-quality, sustainable practices, brings out the best in this old-vine Grenache, delivering a wine that is as easy to drink as it is complex.

The winemaker behind Dune Wines is the talented and innovative Brendan and Amanda, who have a deep passion for working with McLaren Vale’s unique terroir. Their approach is minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to express themselves as naturally as possible. The Cactus Canyon Grenache comes from a combination of old vines and more modern plantings, blending the best of both worlds to create a wine that is vibrant, fresh, and packed with character. After being hand-harvested, the wine is fermented in small batches, with minimal oak influence to allow the fruit’s natural flavors to shine through.

In the glass, Dune Cactus Canyon Grenache has a deep, vibrant ruby-red color, with rich and inviting aromas. The nose is packed with bright red fruits—think ripe raspberry, strawberry, and cherry—along with a touch of black pepper and subtle spice. There’s also an earthy quality, with hints of dried herbs and a bit of dusty earth that gives the wine a grounded, rustic character.

On the palate, this Grenache is medium-bodied with a smooth, velvety texture that glides across the mouth. The fruit is front and center, with juicy berry flavors that are ripe but still fresh. The tannins are soft and round, making it super approachable, and the acidity provides a nice lift, keeping the wine lively and balanced. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering flavors of red fruit, spice, and a touch of earthiness, which add depth and complexity.

Dune Cactus Canyon Grenache is a fun, food-friendly wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its vibrant fruit and smooth tannins make it an excellent match for grilled meats, especially lamb or sausages, as well as charcuterie, pizza, or even barbecued vegetables. It’s the kind of wine you can enjoy casually, with friends, or take it up a notch and pair it with a hearty dinner.