The Artisans of Barossa is a group of renowned winemakers with a shared philosophy when it comes to winemaking. Composing Philip Lehmann (Max & Me), John and Tim Duval (John Duval Wines), Jason Schwarz (Schwarz Wine Co.), Peter Schell (Spinifex), Corey Ryan and Simon Cowham (Sons of Eden), and Greg and Alison Hobbs (Hobbs of Barossa), the group have collaborated on The Grenache Project. Today, enjoy the combined fruit of their talents for 25% off RRP.
Here are six Grenache wines, all made from fruit in the same vineyard, but each created using the independent techniques of the winemakers that make up the Artisans of Barossa collective. Taste just how differently a single terroir can express itself under the care of different talented winemakers.
Barossa Valley
Colonel William Light, the South Australian colony’s Surveyor-General, named the Barossa in 1837 after the site of an English victory over the French in the Spanish Peninsular War. In the mid-1800’s Silesian and English immigrants settled in the area. The Barossa itself comprises two distinct sub-regions: Eden Valley and the warmer Barossa Valley floor at 270m.The Barossa Valley enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate characterised by hot dry summers and relatively low rainfall. Cool sea breezes from the Gulf of St Vincent modify the temperature, however hot northerly winds can occasionally dominate creating considerable vine stress. Many older established vineyards are dry-grown, but supplementary irrigation is also extensively used. The valley is comprised of rich brown soils and alluvial sands. A long history of uninterrupted viticulture in the area means the Barossa valley is home to Australia’s largest concentration of old-vine Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvedre with many over 100 years old. Although most famous for Shiraz, the Barossa can also produce fragrant and deliciously fruity Grenache blends and beautifully rich, chocolatey Cabernet Sauvignons.
