Grenache is arguably the most exciting grape variety on Australian shores of late and indisputably the cultivar that bodes best for an increasingly challenged climate. Responsible for a number of stylistic interpretations, Australian Grenache has traditionally been round, generous and fruity, with an emphasis on wild strawberry, kirsch and Turkish Delight aromas. Bruno & George’s Joh Norman and his deep understanding of Spanish iterations of the variety, however, delivers a far more savoury experience that challenges the world’s best. Think riffs on wild strawberry, thyme, lavender and a weave of spindly tannins, firm and edgy, that serve as a legacy of vast international experience and the sort of confident extraction that comes with it.
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.
