2024 Ministry of Clouds Tempranillo Grenache, McLaren Vale

This was conceived as a contemporary Vale restaurant red, some 13 vintages ago. Today, the blend has benefitted from new estate-planted clones of tempranillo. As is the way here, this saw an array of nuanced ferments, 17 in total. The grenache came from Clarendon. The refined tension at modest weight is key, with those cola and sarsaparilla notes of the tempranillo (74%) reflected in a savoury key, and the grenache (26%) opening the nose and palate, contributing dried cherry cranberry and orange peel – or that’s how it feels. Aromatic, lighter medium-weighted, savoury and delicious.

93 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Ministry of Clouds Tempranillo Grenache from McLaren Vale is a vibrant, savoury and beautifully textured red that celebrates the Mediterranean soul of this coastal region. Made by winemakers Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood, it reflects the duo’s signature style — wines of energy, texture and balance that capture both place and personality. This blend brings together the dark, spicy backbone of Tempranillo with the juicy lift and perfume of Grenache, resulting in a wine that feels effortless yet quietly complex.

The fruit is sourced from dry-grown, low-yielding vineyards across McLaren Vale, where ancient sandy and ironstone soils produce grapes with natural concentration and freshness. The varieties are fermented separately with wild yeasts in small open fermenters, including a portion of whole bunches to add aromatic lift and structure. After gentle pressing, the wine matures in seasoned French oak for around ten months, allowing the blend to harmonise while maintaining purity of fruit.

In the glass it shows a deep crimson hue with purple edges. The aroma is perfumed and enticing, with notes of red cherry, plum, raspberry, dried herbs and spice. On the palate it is medium bodied and silky, combining the savoury edge of Tempranillo with the generosity and brightness of Grenache. Fine tannins and a thread of acidity give it precision and drive, while the finish lingers with red fruit, spice and a touch of earthy complexity.

Ministry of Clouds Tempranillo Grenache pairs beautifully with tapas, grilled lamb cutlets, slow cooked meats or Mediterranean vegetable dishes. It also shines alongside wood fired pizza or aged Manchego cheese. While immediately charming, it has the balance to age gracefully for six to eight years, gaining depth and savoury nuance over time.