2024 Willunga 100 Grenache, McLaren Vale

From 50-year-old vines on the estate Blindspot vineyard, Blewitt Springs. A brilliant garnet in the glass, this is delightfully pure of feel, though with a little more generosity, a lower-gear drive than the single sites. There are some darker fruits, a violet note, iodine, iron, a rounding out of flavour from older oak maturation (70%). There’s drive and tension, too. Redcurrant gel, black cherry, dried hardy herbs, a little anise, with a savouriness to flavour and structure. It’s a fine introduction to the Willunga 100 grenache mission.

93 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecomapnion.com.au

From the sandy soils and warm Mediterranean climate of McLaren Vale comes a Grenache that captures both vibrancy and regional charm. Willunga 100 was established with a focus on expressive, site driven wines from South Australia’s most distinctive vineyards, and Grenache has always been central to the story. Sourced from old vine parcels across McLaren Vale, often planted on deep sands and red brown earth, the wine reflects a region known for producing generous yet finely structured Grenache. Cooling sea breezes from Gulf St Vincent moderate the warmth, helping retain freshness and aromatic lift.

Bright ruby with lively crimson hues, the aromatics are immediately inviting. Raspberry, wild strawberry and red cherry lead, followed by hints of dried herbs, white pepper and subtle spice. There is a lifted floral note and a gentle earthiness that speak clearly of McLaren Vale’s terroir.

On the palate it is medium bodied, supple and beautifully balanced. Juicy red berry fruit forms the core, supported by soft tannins and bright natural acidity that give energy and length. Notes of spice and a touch of savoury complexity build through the mid palate, leading to a smooth, lingering finish with cherry and pepper nuance. It is a modern McLaren Vale Grenache style that favours finesse over heaviness.

Pair with slow roasted lamb shoulder, grilled Mediterranean vegetables, wood fired pizza or chargrilled pork. Delicious now for its vibrancy and fruit expression, it will cellar confidently for eight to twelve years, developing further savoury depth and silky integration.