Silk. That's the first word that comes to mind with this Yangarra High Sands Grenache. There is an incredible sense of delicacy and precision here, yet beneath the prettiness sits a quiet tension that gives the wine remarkable presence.
Planted in 1946, these certified organic and biodynamic bush vines are rooted in six metres of pure silica sand, and that sandy foundation seems to bring an almost effortless elegance to the wine.
For the first time, 15% whole bunch contributes to the final blend, while the remainder is selectively sorted, destemmed and fermented with 50% whole berries retained. Wild yeast fermentation in ceramic egg and small open top stainless steel fermenters, followed by a long, gentle maceration, has resulted in a wine where purity of fruit is front and centre.
Blueberries, mulberries, delicate raspberries and raspberry coulis glide across the palate, joined by a nostalgic flicker of raspberry rope. The fruit is joyous, pristine and beautifully shaped, yet never feels overly sweet or weighty. The tannins are fine and graceful, creating a seamless framework that allows the fruit to float. There's a wonderful sense of flow and feel, with that silica sand seemingly translating into that prettiness and finesse. Then, just when you think the wine has revealed everything, a subtle tension arrives late, tightening the palate and adding another dimension. I watched this evolve over a couple of days and it just kept getting better and better. There's the structure and purity to age beautifully, but if you're drinking it now, give it a proper decant and embrace the beauty. Incredible as ever.
97/100
Region: McLaren Vale
