Wine Code Breaker #418

Australia is girt by sea. A fact that is irrefutable. You could argue that Barossa Grenache is girt by Shiraz. In fact, the girtage factor of Shiraz to Grenache is 10 to 1. And like Australia as an island of the Southern oceans, Barossa Grenache stands out brightly contrasting against the hue of magenta reds. It is more crimson in colour, more elegant today than of the fortifieds of yesteryear. Maybe you could call it a warmer climate version of Pinot Noir.

The 2022 Penfolds Bin 21 Grenache is from the Barossa Valley in South Australia represents the first Bin release. It is a bright, crimson-coloured wine with some darker hues marking its place. The nose is a beacon with its fragrant and perfumed notes and hints of charcuterie. Raspberries and liquorice meld to become sarsaparilla-like. The palate flows energetically with pronounced red raspberry fruits, pomegranates and cherry pith girting the citrus zest. Its emery board and talc-like tannins juxtapose the acidity to deliver a long lingering, savoury finish. This leaves you thinking, perhaps the girtitude of Grenache needs to be improved upon.

Acknowledgement to David Hunt of ‘Girt’ fame for the inspiration.

Enjoy!