Yalumba Barossa Bushvine Grenache 2013

American consumers are discovering something wonderful, and that is the wonderful world of old vine wines from Australia. In terms of vine genetic history, Australia is the treasure trove of the world thanks to vine importation before phylloxera in France combined with the relative lack of phylloxera in Australia. This wine comes from 35-70 year old head trained bush vines from the sandy soils of Barossa Valley. As Yalumba ambassador Jane Ferrari has described it, “Rosemary over raspberry [slaps hands together and pushes them forward] right down the middle of the tracks.” I’ll add to that soft layers of spice and clove that show just how good Grenache can be when grown in the right place.

With the Aussie vivacity of the fruit, along with the spicy edges, this would be ideal with grilled fillet or other such lean but tender meats. Also versatile with pork and poultry dishes, especially if a wood burning fire is involved.
Wine review by Jason Kallsen

Food Pairings

Steaks, pasta with meat sauces, sausages the spicier the better. Barbecued ribs or chicken. Burgers and brats.