Thistledown 'Gorgeous' Grenache, South Australia

As its name boldly promises, the 2022 Thistledown ‘Gorgeous’ Grenache is anything but shy, bursting with wild strawberry charm, silky spice, and a vibrancy that dances in the glass. Crafted from South Australia’s prized old vines, it captures the grape’s natural allure in a style that’s fresh, supple, and irresistibly drinkable.

Product Details:

• Category: Red Wine
• Varietal Composition: 95% Grenache, 4% Shiraz, 1% Mataro
• Alcohol: 14%
• Residual Sugar: 2 g/L
• Total Acidity: 5.43 g/L
• pH: 3.48
• SO₂: 98 mg/L
• Viticulture: Old vineyards, including dry-grown bush vines
• Winemaking: Small-batch vinification, wild ferments, whole-bunch inclusion, maturation in larger oak, bottled unfiltered and unfined
• Suitability: Vegetarian and vegan friendly

Sensory Description:

Lifted aromatics of wild strawberry, red cherry, and spice define the bouquet, complemented by delicate violet and herbal notes. On the palate, the wine shows a textural, almost silky character, with vibrant fruit purity balanced by gentle tannins and fresh acidity. Supple and energetic, it finishes with a lingering brightness that highlights its contemporary, food-friendly style.

Awards & Accolades:

• Silver (2022 Vintage) – 2024 TEXSOM International Wine Awards

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 2010 by Master of Wine Giles Cooke, Thistledown has built its reputation on precision, elegance, and energy in winemaking. From its base in the Adelaide Hills, the winery sources fruit from some of South Australia’s most iconic sites, focusing particularly on old-vine Grenache. With a philosophy of minimal intervention and a commitment to expressing vineyard character, Thistledown has become a leader in Australia’s Grenache renaissance, garnering critical acclaim and global recognition.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16–18°C to highlight the wine’s aromatic lift and supple texture. The 2022 ‘Gorgeous’ Grenache pairs beautifully with dishes like chargrilled lamb skewers, mushroom risotto, or roasted root vegetables, while its bright fruit also complements lighter fare such as hard cheeses or Mediterranean-inspired plates.

The 2022 Thistledown ‘Gorgeous’ Grenache is a captivating example of modern Australian Grenache, aromatic, energetic, and endlessly enjoyable.