2025 Thistledown She's Electric Grenache, McLaren Vale

From old bush vines planted to red-brown sandy loam soils studded with quartz and ironstone. Natural yeast, 50% whole bunches, eight months' élevage in old oak. Those bunches are seamlessly integrated across what is a medium-weighted and serenely elegant release. It’s got structure, though, the tannins quietly commanding, pithy, crunchy, drawing long. Wild cherries, pomegranate, damson plum, Campari, white peppery spice. There’s real charm to this right now, but there’s also a lot wound within, with layers of spice and earthy detail emerging with air. It’s the most finessed, elegant release of this I can recall, and that’s from a year that was both warm and extremely dry. Old vines, hey. Drink 2026-2036.

96+ points Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion, March 2026

A light, bright and vivid cherry red in the glass. Lifted and pretty, with aromas of raspberry, pomegranate, dried herbs, spice, pot-pourri and some bunchy funkiness. There's lovely weight and life on the palate, medium bodied, juicy red fruits, spice and a woodsy earthiness. The tannins are shapely and caressing and the length and flow is mightily impressive. Drink 2026-2036.

95 points Aaron Basher, The Real Review, March 2026

Thistledown has a knack for capturing the many faces of Grenache across McLaren Vale, and She’s Electric shows the brighter, more energetic side of the variety. Led by Giles Cooke MW, the focus is always on old vine fruit, thoughtful picking and a lighter touch in the winery, letting freshness and detail take the lead.

Sourced from select sites across the Vale, often including sandy soils that favour aromatic lift, this wine leans into vibrancy rather than weight. It is Grenache built on drinkability, but still carrying the pedigree that defines the Thistledown style.

Bright crimson with a translucent edge, the aromatics jump from the glass. Raspberry, red cherry and strawberry lead, followed by rose petal, a hint of spice and a gentle herbal lift. There is an immediacy here that feels lively and inviting.

The palate is juicy and energetic, red fruits flowing freely across a soft, finely structured frame. Tannins are light and silky, while a line of fresh acidity keeps everything lifted and moreish. A subtle savoury edge adds interest, but the focus remains on purity and drinkability, finishing clean and bright.

This is a perfect match for relaxed, flavour driven food. Chargrilled chicken, lamb skewers, or even a simple pizza all work beautifully. It also handles lightly spiced dishes with ease, making it a versatile option for casual meals.

Best enjoyed in its youth while that vibrancy is at its peak, over the next three to five years.

There is a real sense of fun here, a wine that lives up to its name, bright, lively and a little bit irresistible, perfect for sharing with friends and not overthinking it.