Thistledown 'Thorny Devil' Grenache, McLaren Vale, Australia

Perfumed, spicy and remarkably supple, 2023 Thistledown 'Thorny Devil' Grenache captures the fresher side of old-vine McLaren Vale. Fruit comes from old, dry-grown, bush-trained vines across several subregions, with earlier picking helping preserve fragrance and energy through the unusually cool 2023 season. Wild fermentation, varying portions of whole bunches and deliberately gentle extraction build layers without sacrificing delicacy, while seasoned French oak keeps the focus firmly on Grenache. Red berries, pomegranate, spice and dried herbs unfold across a silky, finely structured palate with the combination of aromatic intensity and effortless drinkability that defines contemporary McLaren Vale Grenache.

Product Details:

• Founder, Winemaker & Proprietor: Giles Cooke MW
• Co-Founder: Fergal Tynan MW
• Grape Variety: 100% Grenache
• Vineyards: Multiple old-vine sites, all dry-grown and bush-trained
• Soils: Sandy, mineral-strewn soils
• Harvest: Handpicked, with an emphasis on earlier picking for freshness and balance
• Fermentation: Wild fermentation with varying percentages of whole bunches in every ferment
• Extraction: Very light extraction focused on infusion rather than heavy extraction
• Aging: Approximately 8 months in seasoned 300- and 500-liter French oak
• Alcohol: 14%
• pH: 3.32
• Total Acidity: 5.43 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 2 g/L
• Total SO2: 83 mg/L
• Dietary: Suitable for vegetarians and vegans

Sensory Description:

Highly perfumed and layered, with wild raspberry, cranberry and pomegranate joined by rose, red cherry and an intriguing savory edge. White pepper, clove, dried thyme and cassia bring spice and complexity, while hints of tamarind, mint and rhubarb add further dimension. The palate is silky and energetic, with concentrated red fruit carried by finely woven tannins rather than weight. Gentle extraction and seasoned oak preserve Grenache's fragrance and transparency, leading to a long, supple finish marked by red fruit, spice and persistent savory detail.

Awards & Accolades:

• 94 Points & Special Value: Halliday Wine Companion
• 93 Points: JamesSuckling.com
• 93 Points: The Wine Front
• 92 Points: Robert Parker Wine Advocate
• Judges' Choice: TEXSOM 2024

Winemaker's Background:

Thistledown was founded in 2010 by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan with a focus on the historic vineyards and old vines of South Australia. Giles Cooke MW serves as Founder, Winemaker & Proprietor, working closely with growers and directing harvest and winemaking. Grenache has become central to the estate's identity, with an approach built around earlier picking, wild fermentation, whole bunches, gentle extraction and restrained oak to emphasize perfume, texture, freshness and vineyard character.

Serving Suggestions:

Thorny Devil's fragrant red fruit, savory spice and silky tannins make it a versatile partner for charcuterie, grilled or roasted lamb, game meats and other simply prepared grilled meats. Its freshness and moderate extraction also allow it to work particularly well with spice-driven dishes where a heavier red might overwhelm the food.