2022 Yangarra Old Vine Grenache

96 POINTS - HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION

THE STORY

Yangarra Estate Vineyard is located in the Blewitt Springs district of McLaren Vale, South Australia. The estate is devoted to varieties traditionally grown in the southern Rhône, with Grenache playing a central role. The Old Vine Grenache is sourced from mature vines planted in 1946, grown in the estate's elevated sandy soils. These old vines naturally produce low yields and concentrated fruit while retaining freshness and elegance.

VINTAGE

The 2022 growing season provided excellent conditions for Grenache at Yangarra. A cooler season and extended ripening period allowed the fruit to develop slowly while maintaining natural acidity, fragrance and freshness. The resulting wines show excellent balance, purity and refined tannin structure.

VINTAGE

The 2022 growing season was slightly cooler than 2021, with favourable winter rainfall followed by mild conditions during flowering and fruit set. A cool ripening period from late January through the March harvest allowed the grapes to develop excellent ripeness and intensity while retaining freshness and natural acidity.

WINEMAKING

Fruit was hand-picked and carefully sorted before fermentation. A portion of whole berries and whole bunches was used to enhance aromatic complexity and structure. Fermentation took place with gentle extraction to preserve the delicate character of Grenache. The wine was matured in large-format French oak and older oak vessels, allowing the fruit and vineyard character to remain the focus.

TASTING NOTES

Fragrant and expressive, with aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry, raspberry and dried herbs complemented by subtle spice and floral notes. The palate is elegant and finely structured, showing juicy red fruit, savoury complexity and silky tannins. Fresh acidity carries the wine through to a long, refined and beautifully balanced finish.

Yangarra began converting to organic and biodynamic farming in 2008 and has been certified organic and biodynamic by Australian Certified Organic (ACO) since 2012.