This 2024 Grenache Gris is only the second release from Spinifex's newest vineyard planting. Despite it's youth, the wine is abundantly complex and delicious, which should come as no surprise to those who know Pete and Magali's history in the south of France, which this grape sometimes calls home.
The duo planted a small plot of Grenache Gris on their Dominion vineyard in 2020, just a stone's throw from their winery in the heart of the Barossa. The young vines are trellised low to the ground in dainty rows which sit atop nutrient-poor soils of sand, gravel and clay. Pete thins the vines throughout the season to promote quality and intensity in the fruit. The young vines share this plot with some centurion heavyweights, including Grenache and Shiraz vine dating back to the early 1900's. Unintimidated, this nascent plot is ready to carve a path for Grenache Gris in a portfolio that lovingly pays homage to the traditions of both the Barossa and France's south.
Pete has worked with Grenache Gris for over 27 years. He is well-equipped to bring out the best in these fledgling vines—and it shows. These grapes were hand-harvested and rested on skins for 6-8 hours to bring out the rich flavours and gentle pithiness. For a textural lift, Pete fermented and aged the wine in large, old foudres where it spent 8 months on lees before assemblage and bottling. The resultant wine boasts a silky texture, with flavours redolent of orange blossoms and wild herbs on a plate of salted summer peaches. The wine finishes with a wave of salt-spray that leaves the drinker perpetually reaching for another sip.