The Vagabond Grenache by Thistledown

The Vagabond Grenache 2019
Blewitt Springs, McLaren Vale
We’re convinced that, of all the regions of Australia, the greatest potential for Grenache greatness is in the McLaren Vale. We therefore set about finding unique plots throughout the region, looking for specific soil formations that would embue the Vagabond with finesse, varietal purity and texture.
Vintage Conditions
Right across South Australia, the 2019 vintage will be remembered as a very challenging one. Very dry conditions persisted throughout the growing season while some areas also had to contend with frost, hail and wind – all of which reduced the crop but helped increase concentration and quality. Early March was hot but in the cooler Blewitt Springs vineyards, fruit fared well and most parcels were picked mid March.
Winemaking
From 4 separate, old, dry grown, bush trained vineyards in Blewitt Spring, planted in deep sands with some ironstone. The fruit was hand picked, 68% was wild fermented in a concrete pyramid which had layers of whole bunch and crushed fruit. This ferment had no mechanical extraction. The balance was wild fermented in an open fermenter with 35% whole bunches, hand plunged twice daily. This portion was aged in puncheons while the pyramid fermented was pressed back to a concrete egg and oak puncheons for maturation.
Tasting
This wine possesses a beautifully complex, aromatic nose of violets, wild cherry, rosemary and warming spice. The palate is energetic yet polished and smooth with vibrant cherry, spice, wild strawberry and liquorice on the palate. Medium bodied but multi-layered and textural with a very long, aromatic finish.
Alcohol: 14.5%
Total Acidity: 5.81 g/l
pH: 3.35
Residual Sugar: <2 g/l
SO2: 66 mg/l
Fining: None
Vegan: Yes
Vegetarian: Yes

To find out more about the winery go to  https://www.thistledownwines.com/the-story

To see our full range of Thistledown product go to https://www.auswinesonline.co.uk/product-category/thistledown-wines/

The Vagabond Grenache by Thistledown – great Grenache from an afficianado producer