This impressed when I tasted it in the Vale a few months back and it’s looking even healthier with a bit more flesh on its bones now. Yangarra winemaker Pete Fraser is big on exposure and canopy management; it’s paid off in 2011. The vines themselves were planted in deep sandy dunes in 1946.
White pepper, raspberry and deeper, darker cherry aromatics with a touch of brown leaf. The acidity sits naturally high given the cool growing conditions but it sinks into the fruit over time, seguing into quality textured tannin. Low oak interference is a plus as is the lack of overtly sweet, confected characters. Absolutely no sign of the alcohol heat that can mar Grenache either. It’s coiled and tight at the moment but with air it reveals a silken mouthfeel that is wonderfully becoming. I’m betting on this having a very bright future indeed. 94+ Excellent
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $35
Tasted: November 2012