Results from the Australian Grenache Panel Tasting
Decanter recently hosted its inaugural panel tasting focusing specifically on Australian Grenache, showcasing wines from the 2020, 2021, and 2022 vintages.
This event highlighted the grape’s emerging reputation as a prominent varietal on its own.
The judges noticed an exciting diversity of styles, underscoring the high quality and versatility inherent to Grenache.
The tasting was led by experts Beth Pearce MW, Sara Muirhead MW, and Ben Chan, who assessed a total of 51 different wines.
Their evaluations resulted in 7 wines being awarded the designation of Outstanding, while 25 earned the Highly Recommended label.
Summary of Scores from the Australian Grenache Tasting
- Total Wines Reviewed: 51
- Exceptional: 0
- Outstanding: 7
- Highly Recommended: 25
- Recommended: 15
- Commended: 4
Producers and UK agents contributed by submitting wines made exclusively from Grenache from the specified vintages.
Heritage and Development of Grenache in Australia
The history of Grenache in Australia dates back to 1838 and includes the world’s oldest productive Grenache vines, planted in 1848.
These heritage vines have played a pivotal role in the evolution of high-quality single-varietal Grenache wines in the region.
The lead judge remarked on the impressive range of Grenache wines available today compared to just five years ago.
The tasting revealed a spectrum of styles, from traditional, lush expressions to newer, lighter renditions that draw inspiration from Pinot Noir.
One judge noted that the finest wines feature a depth of flavor derived from the old vines, blending the aromatic characteristics typical of Pinot with a fuller body and robust structure.
Looking Ahead for Grenache
This tasting event marks a significant moment for Grenache, reinforcing its place within the wine world, and it suggests a bright future for this increasingly celebrated varietal.
Source: Decanter
