Gentle Folk Blewitt Springs Grenache 2023

Gentle Folk, founded by Gareth and Rainbo Belton in 2013, is a boutique winery based in the Adelaide Hills, quickly establishing a devoted following for their natural, low-intervention wines that authentically express the terroir and personality of South Australia’s vineyard sites. Known for vibrant freshness and pure fruit expression, Gentle Folk has expanded into premium sites such as Blewitt Springs in McLaren Vale—renowned for its exceptional old-vine Grenache. Their 2023 Blewitt Springs Grenache beautifully captures the essence of this celebrated sub-region, offering elegance, nuance, and the vibrant purity characteristic of the estate’s approach.

Blewitt Springs is notable for its deep sandy soils atop clay subsoils, creating perfect conditions for Grenache vines. The cool maritime-influenced climate of McLaren Vale ensures grapes ripen slowly and evenly, developing expressive aromatics, refined tannins, and vibrant acidity. Gentle Folk’s meticulous vineyard practices, minimal-intervention techniques, hand-harvesting, and spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts in neutral oak vessels or concrete tanks help preserve the wine’s distinctive freshness, subtle complexity, and pure varietal character.

Appearance: Bright, vibrant ruby-red colour with delicate garnet reflections, demonstrating youthful clarity and transparency. Medium-bodied viscosity gently coats the glass, with elegant tears descending slowly, highlighting its refined structure.

Aroma: Expressive aromas of fresh raspberries, ripe strawberries, and red cherries intermingle beautifully with delicate floral notes of rose petal and lavender. Subtle layers of gentle spice, fresh herbs, and underlying earthy minerality add complexity and intrigue.

Taste: Graceful, beautifully balanced palate featuring flavours of juicy raspberry, fresh strawberry, and delicate cherry notes complemented by hints of spice, subtle earthiness, and gentle herbal nuances. Silky tannins and bright acidity ensure impeccable harmony, freshness, and elegance.

Finish: Persistent, refined finish, echoing vibrant red fruits, delicate spices, floral nuances, and subtle mineral freshness. The wine’s silky tannins fade gently, leaving behind a delightful impression of vibrant elegance.

Food Pairing: Superb paired with roasted pork loin served alongside a cherry compote and rosemary-infused potatoes, or grilled vegetable dishes accompanied by Mediterranean herbs and olive oil.