While the 2008 offered itself up to you on release, the 2009 Cirillo 1850 Old Vines Grenache asks more of the drinker. I actually prefer it on a purely personal level. Less sweet fruit, greater structure and intrigue. Initially it is extremely tight and a thorough decant is advised for now…or you can dig in for a few nights of vigorous swirling in order to observe the different facets it has to offer.
Translucent depth, linear complexity. Raspberry, almond skins, marzipan, dusty roads, mint and candied orange rind are a few of the flavours and aromas picked up over three days of tasting. Insistent and increasingly intense yet very dry as it progresses towards the back-palate. More tannin than I’ve witnessed in previous releases. Absolutely no discernible alcohol warmth. A wine for a contemplative evening. 94
Region: Barossa Valley
Alcohol: 14.2%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $50
Tasted: January 2014
Hello Jeremy,
I am looking for a grenache that will express itself as a typical grenache that is about the wine …….not the place. Would you recommend this as being able to fit the bill?
Colin – It’s not so much that I don’t think that this is a typical Grenache (it is very varietal and not at all overworked) but it does speak very strongly of the vineyard to me. I’d be looking more at the 2012 Cirillo The Vincent Grenache instead…or maybe a Grenache from Yangarra or SC Pannell.