McLaren Vale Limited Release Mystery Grenache 2021

Product Description

This limited release Grenache highlights the best of McLaren Vale’s old vines and distinctive vineyard sites. Crafted in small batches, it captures purity of fruit, fragrant aromatics, and the elegant structure that has made McLaren Vale Grenache world-renowned.

Region & Vintage Conditions

The 2021 growing season brought challenges with dry weather and a major hail event, leading to reduced yields. However, the result was fruit of exceptional concentration and intensity. Careful vineyard management and healthy canopies helped protect berries through the hottest summer days. Harvested in mid-March, the Grenache displayed freshness, balance, and lively acidity.

Winemaking

Fruit was sourced from venerable bush vines (over 90 years old) on McMurtrie Road’s loamy soils and Blewitt Springs’ sandy blocks. Fermented in small batches, the wine was then matured in seasoned French oak puncheons (2–8 years old) to retain vibrancy and highlight the delicate fruit profile while ensuring oak remained subtle.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Bright carmine red with crimson edges

• Aroma: Perfumed with rose petal, violets, strawberry, pomegranate, and a touch of wild herbs

• Palate: Juicy layers of strawberry, raspberry, and sour cherry lifted by a bright core of acidity and fine tannins

• Finish: Elegant, persistent, and fresh with a savoury edge

Cellaring

Enjoyable in its youth but capable of developing further complexity with 5–7 years of careful cellaring.

Food Pairing

A versatile Grenache that pairs beautifully with Mediterranean dishes, chargrilled vegetables, duck, or lamb skewers. Its elegance also makes it a fine match with soft cheeses such as Brie.

Accolades

• 94 points – Wine Orbit

Vintage Note