Bondar Rayner Vineyard Grenache 2021

Bondar Rayner Vineyard Grenache comes off a block of 1970 vines on the deep sands of McLaren Vale.

That 1970 planting is dry-grown, organically managed and rooted in sand, which is the reason the wine keeps its lift. Around 20 per cent whole bunches went into the ferment this year, adding savoury detail and the sort of fine structure that lets a Grenache age. Two-thirds matured in old oak hogsheads and the balance in ceramic vessels for six months, so no new wood muscles in. Sand is the key to the region's best Grenache: it drains hard, keeps yields honest and gives wines of perfume and translucence in place of the sweet, jammy style the variety once wore here.

Red fruit, dried herbs and fine chalky tannin, with a perfume that lingers longer than the weight would suggest. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees in a generous glass. Roast duck, lamb with rosemary, or a mushroom and thyme tart.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.