THISTLEDOWN Grenache 'She is Electric' - McLaren Vale, South Australia 2022/23 Bottle - VGN (los)

Description

IN BRIEF
Thistledown Grenache 'She is Electric' 2023 Vintage is an exceptional wine that showcases the unique qualities of Grenache from the renowned McLaren Vale region. Crafted by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan, this hand-crafted, small-batch wine is sourced from distinguished vineyard sites, including a remarkable vineyard discovered in 2016, featuring a mix of old bush vines and younger plantings. Utilizing minimal intervention, the grapes undergo wild fermentation, which enhances the wine’s complexity. Aged in 300-litre used French oak hogsheads, it presents vibrant aromas of strawberries, cherries, and spices. On the palate, it is juicy and full-bodied with a silky texture, finishing long and satisfying. This versatile Grenache is ideal for pairing with a variety of dishes, appealing to any wine enthusiast.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Thistledown Grenache 'She is Electric' 2023 Vintage is an impressive expression that highlights the unique qualities of Grenache in the renowned McLaren Vale region. This wine is part of the Thistledown range, founded by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan, who are dedicated to producing hand-crafted, small batch wines that reflect the exceptional terroirs of their vineyards.

The 2023 vintage continues the tradition of sourcing from distinguished vineyard sites, including a remarkable vineyard discovered by Thistledown in 2016. This site features a mix of old bush vines and younger plantings that illustrate the terroir’s potential. The dry-grown, well-tended vines flourish in red-brown sandy loams rich with quartz and ironstone, benefiting from a low intervention viticulture approach that promotes biodiversity and the health of the growing environment.

'She is Electric' 2023 is produced using minimal intervention methods, allowing the fruit's intrinsic qualities to shine. The grapes are hand-picked and allowed to undergo wild fermentation, with a portion of whole bunches retained to enhance the wine's complexity and character. Aged in 300-litre used French oak hogsheads, this Grenache develops a beautifully balanced profile.

On the nose, the 2023 vintage bursts with vibrant aromas of fresh strawberries, cherries, and spices. On the palate, it offers a juicy, full-bodied experience with layers of richness and a silky texture, showcasing the harmonious blend of fruit and subtle oak influence.

The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a delightful impression that invites you to return for another sip. Thistledown Grenache 'She is Electric' 2023 Vintage is versatile, pairing wonderfully with a variety of dishes, particularly North African and Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as robust fish dishes.

This exceptional Grenache encapsulates the philosophy behind Thistledown Wines, celebrating the intrinsic qualities of the grape while delivering a dynamic tasting experience that is both engaging and memorable. Enjoy this vibrant wine at your next gathering or as a special treat, and savour the essence of McLaren Vale in every glass.

HUON HOOKE The Real Review, 96 Points
Deep, bright purple-red colour; a gently scented bouquet of raspberry and blackcurrant pastilles, fringed with subtle spices. The wine is full bodied and there are ample fine-grained tannins that impart pleasing structure and contribute to its length. A very smart grenache that will age well but can also be enjoyed young. 96 Points, HH, 2023.

JAMES SUCKLING 95 points
This grenache shows glorious riffs on tangerines, mandarin peel, kirsch, cranberries, cloves and mace with a succulent mouth-feel. Full, but feels more medium-bodied. Scintillating length with a briary, chewy edge. Wonderful drinking. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
Ned Goodwin MW

JAMES HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION 94 Points
Dry-grown old bush vines. The norm. This time, in Seaview. Lower elevation. Reddish sandy loams littered with quartz and ironstone. This has greater concentration than the Vagabond grenache, yet without quite the detail or saveur. Damson plum and marasca cherry. Anise, thyme, menthol and lavender. A tad drying. A delicious wine of an expansive mid-palate, intensity of fruit and prodigious length, yet without the translucent pinosity and levity despite the alcohol and oomph that marks the very best examples of grenache from the Vale.

THE WINE FRONT 93 Points
Rich, ironstone/ferrous thing, raspberry, cherry, hazelnut and carob, lots of flesh and tannin, fruit is more on the down low, maybe a little lacking in the mid-palate, but the earthy/choc/ferrous things are the main driver here. Still, distinctive and very good.

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ABOUT THISTLEDOWN
Thistledown Wines is a distinguished winery located in the Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale wine regions of South Australia. Founded by winemaker and viticulturist Charles Lamont and his partner, Thistledown is renowned for its commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted wines that reflect the unique terroirs of both regions.

Thistledown focuses primarily on cool-climate varietals, with a particular emphasis on Grenache, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and the terroir to shine through. This approach encourages the production of wines that are authentic, expressive, and characterful.

The vineyards at Thistledown are meticulously managed, with a commitment to sustainable farming practices that promote biodiversity and environmental stewardship. By prioritizing organic and regenerative practices, the winery ensures that the health of the vineyard ecosystem is maintained, leading to high-quality fruit and vibrant wines.

Thistledown’s wines are characterized by a balance of freshness, elegance, and complexity. The Grenache, in particular, has gained acclaim for its vibrant red fruit flavors, subtle spice, and refined tannins, showcasing the potential of this varietal in the McLaren Vale region. Meanwhile, the Chardonnays are celebrated for their purity and expression, exhibiting bright acidity and mineral notes that reflect the terroir.

In addition to crafting outstanding wines, Thistledown is dedicated to engaging with the community and promoting wine education. The winery often hosts tastings, events, and vineyard tours, providing a welcoming environment for visitors to learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of their wines.

With a strong focus on quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability, Thistledown Wines continues to make a significant impact in the Australian wine scene. Each bottle embodies the meticulous care and artistry of its production, inviting wine lovers to explore the diverse flavors and stories behind the wines. Whether savored on a special occasion or enjoyed casually, Thistledown’s offerings are a true celebration of South Australia’s rich wine heritage.