John Duval Annexus Grenache 2019

2019 and 2020 were warm, dry years in the Barossa, and I think it's years like these where we see what producers are made of. Do they give in to the climate, are they defeated by it, or do they work within the new set of conditions presented to them and make magic regardless? I think you know what I'm going to say here. The 2019 Annexus Grenache is bright and pliable, with layers of ripe but fresh fruit shaped by firm, fine, malleable tannins. This is a brilliant wine. All things are in balance, so drink it whenever you like; however, the beauty of primary fruit is vitality, and I like to see a bit of that in my glass.

Around 80% of this is sourced from the Stone Garden Vineyard’s 1858 plantings at Springton. This has a deep and rich yet elegant feel with raspberry, red plum, goji, crushed stone and spice. The palate is seamless and fluid with impressive freshness of raspberry and red-plum fruit. Long, fine tannins. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

Capturing the deep colour and richness that reflects the Barossa’s dry 2019 vintage, former Penfolds chief winemaker John Duval harnesses the intensity and power of old-vine material from two distinctly different sites in a proud, sturdy wine. Eden Valley fruit brings a high perfume of wild raspberry and fennel, while ancient Tanunda vines provide the grunt and grit that ensures great palate length and solid structure. Its beauty will bloom in the cellar.

This is a perfumed, lucid and characterful Grenache that wafts blueberry, violets and savory, earthy spice. The medium- to full-figured palate shows power and lift, with chewy yet fine tannins, succulent fruit and a satiny texture. This is a classy bottling for sipping now and over the next decade.