Yalumba Bush Vine Grenache 2020

Yalumba Bush Vine Grenache, Barossa, South Australia, 2020    

Grape: 100% Grenache, oaked

Bright red fruits and spice flow on to a rich, yet savoury palate delivering a wine of elegance, tight structure and tremendous length. The subtle use of French Oak enhances the true varietal characters of this classic Barossa Grenache.

From the Yalumba winery: 

“Yalumba is extremely fortunate to have a resource of very old, gnarled bush vines which produce low yields of concentrated Grenache. A range of terroir can be seen across the different vineyards, from sandy soils to sandy loam to red-brown earth over red clay.

To maximise our blending options, all batches of Yalumba Barossa Bush Vine Grenache are crushed as separate parcels. Some batches retain their stems to help contribute another flavour dimension. The wild yeasts present on the grape skins are allowed to initiate fermentation and, once that has progressed, cultured winery yeasts are added. Particular batches are then selected to remain on skins post-fermentation, further contributing to greater complexity and individuality. After draining and pressing of skins all batches are racked to barrel for maturation.

A medium depth crimson red, this wine has a generous and bright aroma that opens to a spicy clove lift then moves into hints of white pepper and savoury notes amongst an earthy background. This is further complemented by sweet plums and red cherry fruits. Wrapped around a core of juicy redcurrant fruits, the palate combines layers of fleshy sweet flavours and a fine grained tannin finish. Smoothly balanced and eminently drinkable, this is a wine of medium weight but full on flavour.” 

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"Deep ruby-red with good transparency, even colour throughout. The nose is soft with charming aromas of bramble interweave iodine, herbs and sweet spice. Medium-full bodied, bramble aromas show depth and concentration enriched by a hint of iron mineral, liquorice, dark herbs and an amalgam of sweet spices. Fine-grained tannins have a dusty texture, supported by balanced acidity. The primary fruit has a mature expression, lingering to a long and persistent finish. This old vine Grenache shows depth and power with varietal and mineral complexity. Match with venison backstrap and goat stew over the next 10 years. Fermented to 14.5% alc, matured for 6 months in older French puncheons, French, Hungarian and American hogsheads."

18.5/20 points, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, March 2022

"Dried herbs, white pepper, crushed flowers and freshly poured tarmac mingle with fresh plum and red-berry fruit on this aromatic, affordable Grenache. The grip of chewy tannins in the mouth is almost surprising. Crisp acidity lifts the primary fruit and spice flavors. Structured enough to pair with a pork roast, but light and approachable enough to drink on its own. A top example of how far this variety has come Down Under."

92/100 points, WINE ENTHUSIAST, March 2023

A perfect match for a juicy roast, or poached pork belly, joined with roast capsicum, coriander and cashew pesto.