08:36 Stu.
Made only in exceptional vintages, the 'Tithing' in Saxon represented a sub-unit of the '100'. Whereas the '100' represented 100 households, the 'Tithing' was the next level down, representing around 10 households (I never knew they were into decimilisation so early...)
Grenache specialists Willunga 100 sent on a few samples for International Grenache Day, of all the 'insert grape variety' days that have - or still - exist, Grenache for me has always been the one that at least has its roots founded with serious intent, for the betterment of the variety, being born out of the International Grenache Symposium.
For 2014, there is an International Grenache Day, falling on 19th September, refer to Facebook if you're keen to find out more.
That's a rather long-winded preamble to get to the wine in question.
Red fruits familiar to the variety and the region, yet it eschews the overt raspberry jam that can curse some examples. In tandem with the lighter red fruit, it possesses a darker, savoury bent.
A wine medium of body, just veering toward fulness, the savoury and spice elements mesh together well and move toward notes of liquorice. Fine tannins, supple, a little char, it somehow belies its 14+% alcohol, with a deftness and elegance through the finish. An impressive example. 93
Tasted on: Monday 25th August, a Leaf to Fruit day
Source: Sample
Price: $40
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Website: http://willunga100.com
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One of the more sample offers I've received, based on the adoption of a plant based, zero carbon foot print enclosure. Suffice to say I was sufficiently interested in the wine to take a look.
I must confess that my head has been turned in favour Hills Cabernet of late, a run of some good vintages and having seen some progression of the variety - admittedly notedly from K1. I opted to open the 2010 and 2012 side-by-side, sighted - that is not served 'blind'.
A blend of Shiraz, Grenache and a splash of Mataro (50/40/10% respectively). Lovely rendition of the blend. Initially quite closed - give it some air - thereafter you'll be treated to lavender flroals, garrigue, sitting in front of some prime red fruit.
Another schist hot release from Dom Torzi and Tracy Matthews, albeit with a slightly different vibe to the 2012 - who said Australian wine was homogenous?
d'Arenberg's Icon releases (Ironstone Pressings, Dead Arm, Coppermine Road) have all received a brand facelift with the 2010 releases. The trademark red sash is still front and centre, the label cleaner, a contrast to the inky-black contents within. The torn edge provides a departure from the previous narrower profile and arched edges seen on the range up until 2009. Better or not? Your call, I'm here to judge what's within.
Shy, retiring, took a while to unfurl. Tight - and opening slowly it reveals citrus by way of a little mandarin, orange blossom, lime and a suggestive guava note.
Cassis, blueberry, touch of background spice and dustiness - the Viognier integration here is well handled, seen and not heard.
Love the colour of this, kind of reminds me of Irn Bru (some of you might know of that sugar laden Glaswegian staple?).
