Lienert Vineyards Sieben Klon Grenache 2021

Sieben Klon. Does that not sound like a Star Wars villain? Fear not, it is simply German for ‘seven clones’. So it comes as a small surprise to discover that in fact the Grenache has eight clones (the ‘Sieben Klon’ Shiraz has seven). From a vineyard in the western Barossa, with red loam over limestone soils, each of the clones contribute something a little bit different, adding to the overall complexity and interest of the wine. One gives backbone, another rich dark fruits, yet another fine tannins and complexity, then elegance, and yet another with vibrancy and another providing savouriness. And so it goes. Each clone is usually fermented separately to preserve the unique characters it offers and to ensure it works in the final blend (very hard, of course, to unblend a wine). Bright maroon in colour, we have aromas of spices, florals, cherries, raspberries, dry herbs, bay leaves and even a touch of bergamot. Seamless on the palate, mouthfilling, and with cashmere-like tannins. Mid-weight in style, very good length and utterly delicious. It will age well for 5-8 years.