Alkina Estate Stonefire Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2024
- 93
- $75
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‘Stonefire’ is a tribute to the mother rock beneath the Alkina vineyard. Grenache comes from schist-rich sites and the ferrous clays of Polygon No. 4; Shiraz from old vines in Block 9 and Polygon No. 1; Mataro from old vines in Block 3. Southern Cross certified organic and biodynamic. Each block was hand-picked and naturally fermented separately in concrete — high whole-bunch for the Grenache, less for the Shiraz, none for the Mataro — before blending and ageing in a large concrete tulip. Opulent exotic spice leads before quickly intermingling with red fruits. Clove, anise, cardamom and black pepper nestle within wild strawberry, plum, blood orange and orange peel bite. Air reveals a vein of crushed rock minerality and delicate earthy tones. The palate is supple and light on its feet, anchored by firm, chalky tannins. Red fruits abound akin to the nose, with the same cool, elevating mineral core and complexifying spice. Length is gentle but significant. I love the levity here, especially against the weighty, cumbersome expressions this blend has shown from this region in times gone by — intensity and complexity without a hint of ponderousness.
Tom Kline is a wine writer, reviewer, presenter, and educator based in Victoria, Australia. He is the Australian correspondent for the internationally respected publications Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy and Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux, where he highlights the top tier of Australian wine for a global audience. Tom also writes for leading outlets including Decanter (UK), Wine Spectator (US), and Halliday Magazine, among others. An experienced wine show judge and WSET educator, he has authored several consumer-focused wine courses aimed at making wine more accessible and engaging. In 2023, Tom was awarded Best Published Feature Article or Wine Column at the prestigious Wine Communicator Awards, presented by Wine Communicators of Australia.
