Rusden Driftsand Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2014 was a really good vintage for us here in Vine Vale. Crops were well below average which resulted in concentrated fruit with great balance thanks to an extended ripening period.
Because of the low yielding nature of the 2014, the Grenache and Shiraz was more concentrated than previous vintages. The result is a bold harmonious blend that is unashamedly fruit driven.
An explosion of kirsch liquor and spice on the nose leads into a plush, long and supple palate that delivers loads of fruit with a nice hint of seasoned oak in the background. A real crowd pleaser that will also be a surprise package after 8-10 years in the cellar.
On our vineyard in the seventies, 80 year old Grenache and Shiraz bush vines were pushed out to make way for mechanised grape production. At the direction of the large companies at the time, the cleared land was replanted with high yielding white varieties to fulfil demand in the bulk market.
Twenty years later, out of respect and as a tribute to the hard work and wisdom of the early German pioneers who planted the bush vines, Mum, Dad and I spent many late spring months on our knees, grafting the twenty five year old vines back to their original varieties.
Grenache was traditionally planted to make fortified but these days I like to use it in this age-old blend of Grenache and Shiraz.
bbond –
Great drinking wine and great value.