The classic version of McLaren Vale Grenache - Romantic, old-world charm with a core of sweet fruit. Roses, lovage, woody herbs, leaf matter, cranberry and raspberry preserve. The primary aromas are red and loaded with tension: chorizo and sweet paprika again in 2023 followed by the signature blood orange, pomegranate and Turkish delight we've come to expect from this vineyard. Like a room full of balloons ready to be squeezed: potentially loud and brash on one hand but soft and pleasant to hold in the other. The textures promote the red fuits and now it's a large room with red ballons only. There's richness here but it maintains McLaren Vale grenache's natural medium-bodied nature.
Critic Reviews
97 POINTS
Marcus Ellis - Halliday Wine Companion
From 81-year-old vines planted to deep Maslin Sands. Fermented with 12% whole bunches over two weeks, then settled in tank for a month; élevage in a 4500L old French oak vat. This is spicy, lifted, with the depth that this site always displays, the layering of fruit, spice and mineral inflection all visible, but the old-vine intensity viewed though through a cooler lens. Red fruited, with berries, cherries and pomegranate, fresh red florals, musk and blood orange, the tannins so impeccably fine and graceful, yet no less purposeful and savoury. The fruit clings to the tannins – like flesh to a cherry pit – without spilling out. It’s a beautifully poised iteration of this cuvée, and just such a delight.
95 POINTS
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker Wine Advocate
"I've made this wine, by itself, since 2004. It was hard to say goodbye. It has not been easy," says Steve Pannell. The final vintage of the Old McDonald Grenache is the 2024, so this is the second-to-last release we will see from this vineyard. Its fans will mourn its passing but will find much comfort in the arms of Little Branch. Here, the 2023 Old McDonald Grenache is lighter framed and more delicate than the powerhouse 2022 tasted alongside. 2022 was such a magnificent season, and here is my fervent advice to anyone who would like to hear it: the 2022 is a vintage to cellar, while the fragrant, lighter 2023s will bring you all the pleasure in the short to medium term. The diaphanous quality of this 2023 is one of its key attributes (alongside more enhanced freshness/perceived acidity, elevated spice top notes and levity of fruit), but those seeking plushness will be looking only at the 2022. Choose your player. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.
Shipping & Returns
In stock and ready for delivery!
Your items will be shipped from our Sydney warehouse within 1-3 business days of placing your order
Enjoy easy, hassle-free returns within 14 days of purchase
If you don't like the taste of your wine, let us know
Please note: returns and refunds are not available on marketplace items. For full details on our refund policy visit here and for our shipping policy visit here.
Tasting Notes
The classic version of McLaren Vale Grenache - Romantic, old-world charm with a core of sweet fruit. Roses, lovage, woody herbs, leaf matter, cranberry and raspberry preserve. The primary aromas are red and loaded with tension: chorizo and sweet paprika again in 2023 followed by the signature blood orange, pomegranate and Turkish delight we've come to expect from this vineyard. Like a room full of balloons ready to be squeezed: potentially loud and brash on one hand but soft and pleasant to hold in the other. The textures promote the red fuits and now it's a large room with red ballons only. There's richness here but it maintains McLaren Vale grenache's natural medium-bodied nature.
Overall rating: 5.0 / 5 from 2 reviews.
AI Generated Review Summary
Summary topics
Review topics: [].
Review highlights
Reviews
Lithe and elegant
"Fresh raspberry, strawberry orange zest, lifted florals, violet, some potpourri. On the lighter side of medium weight. Elegant wine."
— Gordon A. (5/5)
Elite Grenache producer with each
"Elite Grenache producer with each SV rendition being a great expression of place"