Clarendon Hills 'Onkaparinga' Grenache 2021

Clarendon Hills, founded by Roman Bratasiuk, is a renowned boutique winery in South Australia’s McLaren Vale, known for producing single-vineyard wines that reflect the unique character of each site. The ‘Onkaparinga’ Grenache comes from the Onkaparinga vineyard, which is set on steep, terraced slopes with ancient, iron-rich soils. These conditions contribute to the intensity and complexity of the wine, showcasing the exceptional quality of old-vine Grenache. The 2021 vintage benefitted from ideal growing conditions, with a mild season allowing for slow, even ripening, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and elegant.

Appearance: Bright ruby red with a translucent edge, reflecting its youthful vibrancy and lighter body typical of Grenache.

Aroma: Lush aromas of ripe red berries—raspberry, strawberry, and cherry—lift from the glass, alongside fragrant floral notes of rose and violet. Earthy undertones of dried herbs, spice, and a touch of white pepper add depth, while a subtle minerality rounds out the bouquet.

Taste: Medium-bodied, with a juicy core of red fruits—wild strawberry, raspberry, and red cherry—balanced by savoury notes of dried herbs, fennel, and black pepper. The wine is vibrant, with fresh acidity lifting the fruit and giving it a refreshing, lively quality. Fine-grained tannins add structure without overpowering the fruit, while the iron-rich soils of Onkaparinga impart a distinctive, earthy minerality.

Finish: The finish is long and silky, with lingering red fruit, spice, and a touch of earthiness. The acidity and refined tannins leave a clean, fresh impression, while the savoury, herbal notes add complexity and depth.

Food Pairing: This elegant Grenache pairs beautifully with grilled lamb kebabs with rosemary, where the wine’s bright fruit and spice harmonise with the earthy, herbal flavours of the dish. It would also be an excellent match for roast duck with a cherry glaze, with the wine’s acidity complementing the richness of the duck and enhancing the sweetness of the cherries.