2024 Mystery McLaren Vale Grenache Deal No. 6560

One of the cult institutions of the Vale, is back with their absolute pinnacle Grenache from the old vines of Blewitt Springs.

Two critics gave this Grenache the same 96 points for opposite reasons. Ray Jordan found it light-bodied, pure and silky. Sam Kim found it opulent and mouthfilling. Our take at The Wine Collective: they’re both right, and that’s the appeal.

The fruit comes from a dry-grown vineyard in Blewitt Springs, the high, sandy corner of McLaren Vale. The vines are nearly 60 years old and find their own water, with no irrigation to lean on. The grapes were hand-picked, chilled overnight, open-fermented and basket-pressed. Only a fifth of the oak was new, so the fruit stays in front.

The maker is known for big, powerful reds. Halliday’s Marcus Ellis expected the same here and instead found “a much more elegant agenda”. Rose petal, red cherry and raspberry lead, then dried herbs and warm spice. It’s silky through the middle, with fine tannins and fresh acidity that keep it going.

Open it on a cool autumn evening when you want perfume and depth in the same glass. This is the top Grenache in its maker’s range, priced at more than double their single-vineyard bottling. The label stays under wraps as part of our deal with them.

Blewitt Springs Grenache with grace and grunt, and three critics at 95 points or more to back it.