Mitolo Harena Grenache 2022

Apparently, ‘Harena’ is an ancient Roman word meaning arena. In Roman times, their arenas were sandy stages for gladiatorial battles. This wine is from the 90-year-old bush vines planted in the sandy soils of the McLaren Vale sub-region of Blewitt Springs. That may seem somewhat of a tenuous link but it matters little. What does matter is that even in today’s glory days for old vine Grenache, this wine stands out as something extra special and under cork (which for me, is less special). After pressing, the wine went into 50% two-year-old and 50% older French oak hogsheads, including 15% whole bunches. The colour here is a purple/crimson and the aromas include spices, red cherries, cold tea, raspberries, smoked meats, a hint of game. This is a beautifully elegant wine with serious length. The balance is immaculate and there is fine acidity running the full journey complemented by lacy tannins. This is a stunning Grenache by any standards. Promises good drinking for at least the next ten years.