Willunga 100 Grenache 2024

Willunga 100 Grenache is a vibrant, medium-bodied McLaren Vale Grenache that combines juicy red and dark fruit with savoury spice, fragrant herbs and finely grained tannins. Made from dry-grown bush vines in Blewitt Springs, it captures the fresher, more lifted style that has made this corner of McLaren Vale so exciting for Grenache. Cherry and pomegranate fruit give it immediate appeal, while earthy minerals and a cool, spicy finish bring extra depth and definition. A versatile red for chorizo and prawn paella, grilled lamb, roast vegetables or relaxed barbecue meals.

What the winery says:

Bright red berry and pomegranate aromas are joined by flowering herbs, including lavender and thyme. The medium-bodied palate shows red and dark cherries over a savoury backbone of earthy spice and minerals, finishing with lingering flavour and sinewy, fine tannins. The dry-grown bush vines are approximately 50 years old and planted across three sections of Willunga 100's Blind Spot estate vineyard in Blewitt Springs, on deep Maslin sand over ironstone and clay. Five parcels were hand harvested and fermented separately in open stainless steel fermenters, with approximately 13% whole bunch across the final blend. After eight to twelve days on skins, the parcels were basket pressed. Seventy percent was transferred to aged French oak puncheons, while the balance remained in stainless steel. The wine matured on malolactic lees for ten months before blending and bottling.

What the experts say:

Nick Ryan, The Australian, 96/100 (2024 Vintage)
"If you’re at all curious why Blewitt Springs in McLaren Vale is the most hyped dirt in Australian wine right now, here’s the perfect entry point for imminent addiction."

Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion, 93/100 (2024 Vintage)
"A brilliant garnet in the glass, this is delightfully pure of feel, though with a little more generosity, a lower-gear drive than the single sites."