Bethany First Village Old Vine Grenache

Sourced from low yielding bush vines ranging in age from 50 to 120 years old. Fine structure expressing the varietal red berry fruit characters of Grenache balanced by supple fine grain tannins.

Barossa Valley, Australia. 

2018

14.5%

75cl

MORE INFORMATION

Producer

This Estate is now run by the 5th and 6th generation of the Schrapel family who originally settled in 1852.

They specialise in getting really good results from older vines with a range of vines aged from 50 years up to over 150 years old. This provides concentarted flavours and characteristics. Grenache is key to the Estate with wonderful ripe red berries and careful use of oak ageing when used.

Since 2017 none of the red wines are made with any animal derived products.

Viticulture 

The Grenache fruit is sourced from very low yielding old bush vines which are hand pruned to 50-60 buds per vine. These old vines are grown on their own roots rather than grafted rootstock, naturally limiting the canopy growth and allowing for better fruit exposure to sunlight.

This exposure ensures even ripening of the grapes with enhanced fruit flavour esters and colour ripeness. The fruit is hand picked very late in the season at optimal ripeness.

Winemaking

Grapes were crushed and destemmed immediately after the morning harvest. Fermentation on skins using a selected yeast type occurred for 8-9 days at 20-25 degrees to maximise colour and flavour extraction.

The Grenache was matured in French oak for two years to balance tannin structure with red fruit flavour.

Taste

Championed as one of the best vintages in the past decade, the 2012 Bethany Grenache is a wine of great richness, texture and complexity. Handpicked from old bush vines grown along the foothills of the Barossa Ranges.

The nose displays aromas of fresh plums, blueberry and cherry notes. The palate is medium weight tasting of ripe cherries and raspberries balanced with hints of spice and a smooth tannin finish.

Food Pairing 

It goes well with lamb roast and it is a perfect partner for a tapas platter or antipasto.