Crafted by the renowned Australian winery d’Arenberg, the McLaren Sand Hills Grenache is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Osborn family, who have been cultivating vines in McLaren Vale since 1912. Known for their commitment to traditional winemaking methods and sustainable practices, d’Arenberg has established itself as a paragon of excellence in the world of Australian wine.
This exceptional Grenache hails from McLaren Vale, a region celebrated for its diverse microclimates and rich soils. The McLaren Sand Hills, in particular, contribute a distinctive terroir to the wine. The vineyards, nestled between ancient sand dunes, impart a unique mineral character to the grapes. The warm climate of McLaren Vale, tempered by cool sea breezes, allows the Grenache vines to thrive, resulting in grapes that are both ripe and beautifully balanced.
The grapes for this red are handpicked to ensure the utmost quality, and upon reaching the winery, they undergo a gentle destemming process. The wine then ferments in open-top fermenters, where the skins are regularly plunged to extract maximum flavour and colour. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels, adding layers of complexity and subtle oak influence.
In the glass, the McLaren Sand Hills Grenache captivates with its deep ruby hue, offering a glimpse into the richness that awaits. The nose is a symphony of red berries, including strawberries and raspberries, intertwined with subtle floral notes and a hint of spice. On the palate, the wine unfolds with finesse, showcasing velvety tannins that caress the mouth. Flavours of cherry, plum, and a touch of licuorice dance harmoniously, supported by a backbone of well-integrated oak. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and sophistication.
This Grenache is a true reflection of McLaren Vale’s terroir and d’Arenberg’s commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality. Enjoy it now for its youthful exuberance or let it evolve gracefully with time in the cellar.
2013 Vintage:
2013 was a warm, dry vintage with low yields. Small batches gently crushed into 5-tonne headed-down open fermenters. It was food-trodden during fermentation and basket-pressed and transferred into a mixture of new and used French oak barriques.
Food pairing suggestion: Slow fast fine-spice pork belly
Awards:
Number 57, Top 100 Wines of Australia 2019, jamessuckling.com
96, Nick Stock, jamessuckling.com
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