Cirillo 1850 Ancestor Vine Grenache Barossa – 2017

Cirillo Estate Ancestor 1850 Vine Grenache from the Barossa Valley is regarded in Australia as a national treasure, but internationally it has, remarkably, remained a complete secret! These very special old vines were planted back in 1848, producing their first vintage in 1850, and they are now the world’s oldest Grenache vines still in production!  The vines have survived this long mainly because of the dry, sandy soils on which they grow; phylloxera could never survive in such dry conditions, which is why this remote part of South Australia still has so many wonderful old vines.

This wine from 170 year old vines has powerful aromas of raspberry fruit, dried herbs and assorted spices. The palate is complex, medium to full‐bodied with intense yet subtle, delicate flavours of cherry, raspberry, white pepper and spice. It has incredible freshness and vibrancy for a wine from such a warm climate, with an uplifting bite of spicy acidity and minerality. This may come from ancient vines, but the wine feels very much alive! 14% alcohol.

Try it with seared venison or capocollo (pork neck – seasoned, air-dried and matured), olives and Parmigiano Reggiano.

Only 300 cases were produced! Drink 2023-2038

96pts James Suckling