2025 Thistledown Sands of Time Grenache, Blewitt Springs McLaren Vale

From the 1952-planted Trott vineyard, which was sold in '26, although the source will likely be a constant for Thistledown. Like the Smart vineyard bottling, this has a distinct imprint of site, and with a super gentle touch, where ferments (30% whole bunch layered in concrete) are not worked, just managed; the transparency of making is a magnifying glass on place. Darker red fruits, as usual, more earthy, with some black spice notes and bergamot tea. Red and black cherry, rosehip, quite floral, if subdued, reds and blues. This seems more refined each year, even in what was a warm and dry year. It’s a fine trajectory, and another superb release. Drink 2026-2038.

97 points Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion, March 2026

From the deep, sandy soils of Blewitt Springs, this is Grenache in one of its most soulful Australian expressions. Thistledown, led by Giles Cooke MW, has made a name chasing old vine sites that deliver purity and finesse, and Blewitt Springs is a cornerstone of that vision. These vineyards, often dry grown and decades old, sit on ancient sands that naturally limit vigour, producing fruit with concentration but also a remarkable lightness of touch.

Blewitt Springs has a signature feel, more aromatic, more savoury and more finely structured than many parts of McLaren Vale, and Sands of Time captures that beautifully. It is Grenache shaped by site first, with a gentle hand in the winery allowing those nuances to come through.

Translucent crimson in the glass, the aromatics are lifted and detailed. Red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry sit alongside dried rose petal, spice and a subtle earthy note. There is a quiet savoury edge, with hints of dried herbs and a faint dusting of white pepper.

The palate is all about finesse. Silky, almost weightless, yet carrying plenty of flavour, with red fruits gliding across ultra fine tannins. There is a lovely line of freshness that keeps everything bright and focused, while a gentle savoury character builds through the finish. It is long, graceful and quietly complex.

This is a wine that pairs beautifully with thoughtful, flavour driven food. Roast duck, lamb with herbs and spice, or dishes built around roasted vegetables and grains all work effortlessly. It also handles dishes with a touch of sweetness and spice, where its balance really shines.

Drinking beautifully now, though it will evolve over eight to twelve years, developing more earthy and savoury layers.

There is something quite meditative here, a wine that reflects both the age of the vines and the uniqueness of Blewitt Springs, offering a Grenache that is as much about texture and nuance as it is about flavour.