Description / Reviews
"The Grenache originates from the renowned "Silver Sands" vineyard in Blewitt Springs, South Australia. Planted over 50 years ago by Robert Rende and his father, Michael, this vineyard is considered a hidden gem in the region. The vineyard's viticulture is now expertly managed by Michael J. Corbett, whose focus on quality and sustainability continues to elevate the wine’s reputation and ensure the vineyard's longevity. The 2023 vintage marked the ninth release of this exceptional Grenache from this single site." - Winemaker Notes
"Vanguardist-farmed Rende vineyard bush vines, around 55 years old; 60% whole bunch, with about seven weeks on skins; matured in 2200L Slavonian oak. The cool vintage has its say. Refined, fragrant and elegant, but savoury and spicy, too. Distinct nebbiolo/nerello mascalese riffs, more the latter – an increasing theme at this address. Dried cranberry and cherry, freeze-dried raspberry and orange, from dehydrated peel to the bitter orange note in amaro, chinotto, Campari … five spice, clove, green cardamom, white pepper, alpine herbs, sour plum, dried mint, pressed flowers, warm terracotta. It’s finer of feel. Is it lesser for it? Nope. It’s laden with so much flavour and etched with ultra-fine but authoritative tannins and refreshing acidity. This also opens up and holds for days, suggesting a very bright future. So individual; so stunning." - 97 Points, Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion
"The 2023 Grenache leads with all the star anise and pomegranate, graphite, petrichor and garden rose that we have come to expect both of Vanguardist and fine McLaren Vale Grenache. There is no Australian reference point for the style of Grenache that McLaren Vale is able to produce and excel in—it is detailed, aromatic and structurally fine. This has notes of sweet tobacco, crushed shells and nuances of cracked peppercorns. The season was wet and cool, and the wine here is nuanced and detailed. There are dried herbs here, but it is the chalky tannins that steal the show." - 97 Points, Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate
