McLaren Vale Grenache

Ministry of Clouds McLaren Vale Grenache draws from a pair of vineyards situated in the higher, cooler climes of McLaren Vale, at Blewitt Springs and Clarendon.

The vineyards are comprised of old bush vines, the youngest planted in the mid-1930s. Their sandy soils contribute to a more slender, spicier expression of Grenache – almost Pinot Noir like in style.

Most of the fruit is lightly destemmed to retain whole berries; the remainder is included as whole bunches. Wild yeasts initiate fermentation in open fermenters, which receive gentle plunging twice daily. The juice remains on skins for several weeks.

The wine is then basket pressed and aged for 12 months on fine lees to build texture. No new oak is used to avoid overt oak influence in the final wine.

Deep red purple, Ministry of Clouds McLaren Vale Grenache is fine boned in structure with fresh grainy tannins and bright natural acidity. Cellaring potential is seven years.