Grenache was, and probably still is, used for fortified wines. It is my view that both of these are so under-rated in Australia. Let me explain.
In this country, we have some extraordinary fortified wines made from old material that are so damn cheap. We are spoiled as far as I’m concerned. It is no different with Grenache. Australia has some of the oldest Grenache vines in the world (so I believe) and yet we, I, you, pay very little dollars for quality old vine Grenache and I’m very grateful. I just think it is not only under-rated, it’s also under appreciated. If there was ever a prime, consistent example of this, Yalumba Old Bush Vine Grenache is it!
It’s typically Grenache when it comes to the colour. Quite light yet a vibrant red. Great on the nose. That vibrancy doubles up when it comes to the aromas with lots of red fruits and savouriness here too.
The colour doesn’t tell you what to expect on the palate. Those red fruit characters are obvious but they seem to be a bit more robust without coming across as extracted. They are nice and juicy almost juby but not in a sweet way. There’s a very nice subtle herbal note too, it’s savoury and deliciously spicy and the tannin influence is nought. An absolutely brilliant, bargain wine.
Region: Barossa Valley, SA Price: $24 (Cheaper if you shop around) Source: Online purchase
Words from a Wine Glass 
Please excuse the delay Tony, been burning candles at both ends here madly dashing about hither and thither, but mostly thither amid the usual chaotic period leading up to this fast approaching festive day of the year; we can certainly relate to this Yalumba Grenache posting indeed! We visited Yalumba last year and although we have not tried this particular Grenache, it is worth noting that we entered this most charming winery with the intention of getting to know their wines, and what did we leave with? Grenache and only Grenache. (For the record, we selected the dry grown Carriage Block and ‘Tri-Centenary’). Season’s greetings to all.
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Happy New Year Bob. The Yalumba cellar door is great isn’t it. I’ve not tried those two Grenaches. I’ll have to ask a mate of mine, who is a rep for them, if they are available in Tassie. Cheers!
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