Clare Valley Grenache deserves a bigger seat at the table, and this Killikanoon Prodigal is a delicious reminder of why.
And when I say a bigger seat at the table, the argument is made by a groundswell of terrific Clare Valley Grenache releases of late. Back in June, I judged at the Royal Queensland Wine Show, where the Grenache trophy was awarded to a Clare Valley Grenache (not this one, mind you). How good!
Squishy blueberries and juicy raspberries provide an irresistible fruit core, with flashes of Old Gold and Cherry Ripe. It carries itself with a dainty, graceful shape that initially feels almost Pinot-like. Red apple skin, white cherries and rhubarb add vibrance and lift, while a fine acid crunch keeps the palate moving. Then what makes Grenache thrilling reveals itself. Fine spices whip into action and curl around the fruit. There's a delightful sense of fluidity here, with the fruit gliding effortlessly across the palate before a bright, red apple crunch on close. McLaren Vale and Barossa may hog the Grenache spotlight, but wines like this make a convincing case for the Clare Valley to step forward. Juicy, elegant and seriously throatable, this is Grenache with plenty of personality and a little more swagger than you might expect. Go here.
95/100
Region: Clare Valley
