A blend of Grenache and Cinsault (55/45), the fruit is sourced from Vine Vale and Stone Well. Curiously, it's called Rouge, but there's no mention of such on the label, but we do know it's a red wine...
Usually Mourvedre finds its way into the blend, but not this time, and I reckon I prefer it without. The Mourvedre brings an earthy and savoury presence, but I love the juicy red fruits and dancy disposition that this 2025 exudes.
I recall sitting at the kitchen bench with Michael and Susan back in 2020. I brought a bottle of McLaren Vale Cinsault to share, simply because the way this couple handle their wines would ensure such a delightful expression of the variety from their patch of Barossa dirt. And here we are. Only 55% to go. Maybe a 100% Cinsault is in the pipeline?
Back to this 2025 release... It expressed delightful springtime vibes and will take a chill in the warmer months, but it will also provide comfort on cooler nights. Fire pit nights and some meat on the coals are calling...
Dried red petals and a hint of violet perfume diffuse. An abundance of juicy raspberries, handfuls of blueberries and cranberries burst from the glass. Red apples are followed by a red apple crunch with a hum of barbecue rub spices. Admittedly, it's hard to taste this wine without drinking a glass at a time, such is its gravitational pull. Those spices keep a consistent thread through the core. Above all, it makes a compelling and thrilling case as a tapas and barbecue wine. Smashable deluxe, if this was the house pour at your casa, well, you're winning.
95/100
Region: Barossa
