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#mclaren-vale

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news2026-07-30
Vin Sol Fortis Shiraz 2024
  Fortis means strength, and this Vin Sol Fortis Shiraz lives up to its name from the get-go.  Dark cherries and ripe plums form a powerful fruit core, layered with smoked meats, mocha and an unmistakable pepper steak savoury drive. Cracked black pepper and meat rub spices surge through the palate, adding comforting warmth and complexity without overwhelming the fruit. A firm sheet of drying, powdery tannins anchors everything in place, driving through to a persistent finish. Bold and robust, it strides out confidently. It's a Shiraz that embraces its savoury side while still offering plenty of generous McLaren Vale fruit. Throw a thick-cut steak on the coals and you'll soon discover this wine's purpose. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $27 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
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news2026-07-29
Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 2017
  Rich, generous and unmistakably Geoff Merrill in style, it embraces old school generosity and wears its heart on its sleeve.  Dense plums and blackberries flood the palate, joined by dark chocolate, soy, beef stock and an indulgent caramel slice note that adds another layer of richness. Thirty months in American and French oak leaves a firm imprint, but there's more than enough fruit concentration to carry it through. Cloves and exotic spices linger long, while dusty, drying tannins provide good shape through to a persistent finish. A full-blooded, uncompromising Shiraz with real presence, lovers of bold, traditionally styled reds will find plenty to admire, particularly with a hearty meal and several years of bottle age already under its belt. Well played. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $65 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
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news2026-07-20
Varney Wines GSM 2023
  More herbal than the juicy, fruit-driven style this Varney GSM has become known for, this 2023 slides back a notch or two from those that have come before. It opens with raspberries and blackberries before menthol, dried herbs and a subtle hint of tomato paste take the lead. Chocolate, stripped bark and earthy notes build further complexity, while a blanket of spice settles comfortably over the finish. It's balanced and remains an enjoyable drink, offering plenty of savoury character and interest. That said, it doesn't quite capture the energy, generosity or wow factor of previous releases. In all, it's a solid GSM. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $35 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views
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news2026-07-12
Varney Wines Entrada Grenache Cinsault Rosé 2026
  From 70+ year old bush vine Grenache with a splash of young Cinsault (12%), this Rosé from Varney Wines carries itself with confidence. Take this to a picnic and you're set. A salmon hue with the faintest orange tint sets the scene. Strawberries, cherries and pomegranate burst from the glass before a subtle lick of orange peel adds extra interest. There's a lovely sheet of texture flowing through the mid-palate, aided by a portion of wild yeast fermentation in seasoned French oak, bringing some weight. Delicate spice quietly threads its way through the palate before finishing bone dry. The close is all about a crunchy red apple acidity that keeps everything taut and draws you straight back for another sip. Refreshing yet textural, this is a highly approachable Rosé with plenty of appeal. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
30-402690-94ptsgrenachemclaren-valerose
news2026-07-12
Grant Nash Poolside Rosé 2026
  Grenache and Graciano are unlikely bedfellows, but they work fabulously here in this Grant Nash Poolside Rosé. Sunny days are no match for this delight. An attractive onion skin appearance catches the eye. It's a very pretty Rosé with the duck egg blue label and a popping pink font giving it standout shelf appeal. White cherries and white raspberries lead the way before a creamy core emerges, thanks to time in seasoned oak that also delivers a subtle white chocolate nuance. Poached pear, red apple skin and watermelon husk add further intrigue, while a fine veil of white pepper spice quietly builds momentum through the palate. It's that spice coupled with impressive length and freshness that really seals the deal. There's personality, texture and drinkability in equal measure. A cracking Rosé and one you'll happily reach for again and again. Great drinking. Bravo! 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Fo
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
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news2026-07-10
Grant Nash Mourvedre Grenache Shiraz 2022
  A slightly different take on the classic GSM, this blend from Grant Nash Wines hands the keys to Mourvèdre and lets its earthy, meaty personality rule the house.  The 46/35/19 mix delivers plenty of character, leaning into savoury territory while still carrying enough fruit to keep things flowing. Dusty earth, baked blueberries and dark plums emerge first, setting an inviting tone. The palate is coated with black fruit while savoury elements play a neat supporting role. Dried herbs weave through the middle palate, adding complexity as fine peppery spices and hints of meat rub spices bring a further dimension. Despite its darker and more savoury drive, it moves and sways about with ease, carrying its flavour with a surprising amount of grace. This isn't a wine that asks too many questions. It simply turns up, delivers plenty of satisfaction and gets on with the job. Proper Friday night footy wine. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $40 Source: Sample Winery Website
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
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news2026-07-07
Varney Wines Mencia 2025
  A thrilling Mencia, this 2025 release from Varney Wines is nothing short of excellent. Said to be for members only, bugger that and bang the door down. Tell Alan I sent you. Sourced from Australia's first Mencia planting at Oliver's Taranga, these 2011 planted vines continue to get better and better. It spent 14 days on skins before being pressed to second use French oak for ten months  Give it a chance to breathe and it repays the faith. Gorgeously medium-bodied, bright blueberries and juicy mulberries muse with silky dark cherries. Meat rub spices pack things up in a neat parcel but there is no escaping the supple and elegant fruit that takes control of the midpalate. Varietally true, a red apple crunch seizes its moment, delivering a superb line of acidity. Incredibly moreish, I could get dangerous with this. And perhaps I did. What a super drink. 95/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $35 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:&nb
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)13 views
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news2026-07-07
Grant Nash Lunch GSM 2023
  Affectionately called the Lunch Wine, this GSM from Grant Nash Wines is a delicious yin and yang balance of fruit and savoury delight. Dark fruit and raspberry rope notes get things moving up front, with layers of cured meats, pan juices, stripped bark and meat rub spices adding complexity and depth. The palate walks with impressive poise and a moreish length that urges another sip. Equally comfortable alongside a charcuterie board or plate of barbecued meats, this is a GSM that delivers flavour, texture and drinkability in equal doses. Big love. Go here. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views
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news2026-07-05
Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz 2024
  A fair chunk of oak plays its hand with this Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz. I wasn't overly surprised to learn after tasting and compiling this review that this sees 60% new French oak for 14 months. That high percentage is telling, particularly with a rampant coconut oak note. Some menthol gets in on the aroma profile too and refuses to budge. Hmm. Dark plums, blackberries, cherry liqueur, cola, stripped bark and black tea add plenty of character, but it's hard to shake the oak. Perhaps time will help. 91/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $42 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
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news2026-07-01
19th AWITC, Adelaide, Australia (Part 3): McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills bus tour highlights
The Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference, held every three years, also featured a Bus Tour Programme in 2025. Carolyn Howell did two of these bus tours on 18 July and 23 July.
by Carolyn Howell17 views
technicalviticulture-researchadelaide-convention-centreadelaide-hillsaustralian-wine-industry-technical-conferenceawitc
news2026-06-26
Grant Nash Grenache 2024
  With a persona edging on robust with some generosity, this Grant Nash Grenache opens with a warm, spice-laden frame that sets the tone. Inviting aromas of baked raspberries, red currants and ripe red cherries lead the charge, all wrapped up in a neat parcel that echoes Cherry Ripe slice. Of note, it strikes a mean balance between fruit intensity and a savoury intrigue. Exotic spices weave about the palate with ease offering a neat, rustic, earthy edge. Perhaps this is the splash of Mourvedre talking? Some meatiness tucks in beneath, too. In all, it calls for food and I reckon it would smash burger night with ease. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
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news2026-06-25
Grant Nash Grenache Gris 2025
  Add this to your springtime lunch list. Fresh, vibrant and crisp, there is much to adore about this Grant Nash Grenache Gris. Perfect for Friday knock-offs as well, it sees some time in seasoned oak which adds a fine veil of texture. White flowers, pink lady apples, white-fleshed nectarine, white cherries and a deft touch of minerality build a strong case for refreshment. The texture can be best described as chalky as it taps away, but it is not drying. A drop of lemon juice ties in late with a faint, stealth-like cinnamon spice reaching out with persistence. Beautiful drinking. Go here. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
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news2026-06-23
Grant Nash Old Mate 128 Grenache 2025
  There is an elegant simplicity about this Old Mate 128 Grenache from Grant Nash Wines that has me leaning in a little closer. Closed and not overly expressive aromatically on opening, raspberries and raspberry rope do their best to emerge. Spiced red berries and red currants plant themselves on the mid-palate with poached rhubarb, raspberries and strawberries circling the wagons. Sheets of dusty tannins coat the palate late as fine spices tighten the noose and cling on for dear life. A pre-release sample, I reckon this will show better with some more bottle age. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $65 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
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news2026-06-22
Vin Sol Ignis Tempranillo 2024
  We've got a smart McLaren Vale Tempranillo here courtesy of Vin Sol. Admittedly, it looked better after it had some time to breathe, so give it that chance to shine. An array of dark berry fruits greets you, but I'm all here for the cola, cured meats and blackberry jubes. Dried herbs add detail with a sheet of fine exotic spices, but you'll see it move into fifth gear beside tomato-based pizza and pasta dishes. A big thumbs up from me. 91/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $27 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
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news2026-06-20
Chapel Hill The MV Bush Vine Grenache 2025
  The shattering news that the Chapel Hill winery and its assets will be sold off came through a couple of days after winemaker Michael Fragos got in touch and told me a few wines were on their way. I'm devasted for Michael and his team and the uncertainty ahead, not to mention that this historic McLaren Vale brand will only be left as a name.  It's worth noting that Michael Fragos sent these wines to me, not the parent body. I'm grateful that he respects my opinion enough for me to get a chance to check them out. Bright and immediately approachable, red currants and blueberries sit at the core, lifted by fresh red apples that add a neat crunch. An energetic type, shards of dark chocolate work their way into the frame. Despite its medium-bodied frame, the tannins are tense. A fine thread of spice runs through adding further appeal, much like its maker, it's honest, easy to approach with a charismatic charm. Throw this at some pizza or a burger and you're winning. 91/100 Regio
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)14 views
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news2026-06-20
Chapel Hill The MV Shiraz 2024
  Just days before Endeavour dropped the bombshell that Chapel Hill's assets will be sold, winemaker Michael Fragos sent me an email to inform me that he had sent some wines for review. As a most respected McLaren Vale winemaker, I feel for him and his staff and the uncertainty they are left with. It's worth noting that Fragos sent these wines to me, not the parent body. I'm grateful that he respects my opinion enough to give me a look. Dense and deeply concentrated, this Shiraz unapologetically strides out with confidence. Ripe plums and cherries are framed by savoury undertones with evocative licks of cured meats and pan juices. With a whisper of char, this calls for a steak on the coals. Drying, waves of spice roll through adding further interest and complexity before a persistent length drives it home and stamps its authority.  90/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $33 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram , 
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
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news2026-06-20
Chapel Hill The MV Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
  Only a few days before Endeavour went public and announced they were selling off the assets from Chapel Hill but only retaining the brand, I received an email from Michael Fragos asking if I could take a look at his wines. A great human, I feel for the staff who have been caught up in the crossfire. Perhaps this could be one of the last Chapel Hill wines that I see? To the wine... McLaren Vale Cabernet. It presents quite leafy, stemmy and firm on opening. Blackberries and blackcurrants aren't far from the action but then the savoury tempo builds and arrests your attention. Dried herbs, mint and green capsicum are the main players. Tensing up on close, this would be best with some protein by its side. I'm thinking of roast lamb or beef. 88/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $33 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)27 views
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news2026-06-07
Vin Sol Flōrus Fiano 2025
  A great little Fiano! Can I keep the review at that? Armed and ready for long lunches, the presence and interest delivered elevate this Vin Sol Flōrus Fiano. Expected cut pears and poached pears are joined by a sizzling splash of lemon juice. The perfume from little white flowers adds aromatic delight. Almond meal and ginger add savoury nuances, but I'm leaning into the tonic-like texture that plants itself on the mid-palate that seemingly refuses to move. The hum of ginger and cinnamon spices on close builds a terrific moreishness. It's a really smart Fiano that I'd happily recommend. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $27 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
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news2026-06-06
Geoff Merrill G&W Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
  Released with eight years of ageing already done for you, this Geoff Merrill Cabernet quietly improved over the few days it was open.  A blend of Coonawarra and McLaren Vale fruit, like its Jacko's Shiraz sibling, it's rich, ripe and bold. Loaded with black fruits, plum pudding and dark chocolate, it's puckering and saps all moisture from the mouth. Cigar box, dried mint and eucalypt nuances add interest with powdery tannins draped across a lengthy and sustained finish. Top value for $30, if you like 'em big with a dash of charisma, shuffle over this way. 92/100 Region:  Coonawarra & McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
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news2026-06-06
Geoff Merrill Jacko's Shiraz 2018
  Eight years young, this is only the early days for this long lifer from Geoff Merrill. A bold and full-throttle delivery is clear from the first swirl. With scents of chocolatey oak, rich vanilla and mocha, it's ripe and dense. Blackberries and blackberry jubes sit at the core with a slightly sweet fruited edge plus lashings of licorice for interest. Unapologetically dense, there is some real heft and muscle here without being top-heavy. A trail of lingering spices and boisterous tannins has the last word. If you like them painted on thick, I reckon you have a new friend here. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
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news2026-06-05
South Australia leads in sustainability
The South Australian wine industry is rightfully proud of the robust sustainability certification program for grape growers and winemakers run through the national body Sustainable Winegrowing Australia (SWA). The post South Australia leads in sustainability appeared first on Great Wine Capitals .
by pirsa17 views
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news2026-06-04
Jericho Bracken Vineyard Grenache 2024
  I reckon this Bracken Vineyard Grenache would shine beside food. Irrespective, it's once again a very good expression of the variety from the McLaren Vale sub-region of Blewitt Springs. Made with 25% whole bunches and seeing 12 months seasoned French oak, it opens with dark cherries, strawberries and baked blueberries. Shards of dark chocolate and ripples of raspberry jam give off those classic old-school Wagon Wheel vibes. Puffs of earthiness and undergrowth are parcelled up by an array of woodsy and barbecue meat rub spices that linger. Soft, silty tannins have the last word. Great stuff. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $42 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
40-502490-94ptsgrenachemclaren-vale
news2026-05-12
d’Arenberg The Innocent Weed Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre
d'Arenberg The Innocent Weed is an organic GSM from McLaren Vale in South Australia. Wine review by Lisa Johnston (thewinemuse) The post d’Arenberg The Innocent Weed Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre appeared first on winemusing .
by Lisa Johnston16 views
australian-winebold-redsmclaren-valeorganicred-winerevuse
news2026-04-22
Ox Hardy Fiano 2025
  A burst of energy makes a statement on opening. It's a wine that presents a charming case both in the glass and on the label - I do love how that pink Ox Hardy font pops off the sky blue label. From the Upper Tintara vineyard, 10% saw time in seasoned French oak.  White-fleshed stonefruit is flanked by Mutsu apple, lemon juice, speaspray and herby things. Not to be outdone, some cucumber and almond nuances slide in. The considered textural presence elevates the detail, but there is no mistaking the energy from the fruit that has lift and life. Lively acidity and a green apple crunch make a move on close, seeing out a smart expression. Tasted alongside another McLaren Vale Fiano, I know I'd rather hunt this down in quick time. Tick! 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $28 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
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Vin Sol Fortis Shiraz 2024

Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 2017

Varney Wines GSM 2023

Varney Wines Entrada Grenache Cinsault Rosé 2026

Grant Nash Poolside Rosé 2026

Grant Nash Mourvedre Grenache Shiraz 2022

Varney Wines Mencia 2025

Grant Nash Lunch GSM 2023

Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz 2024

19th AWITC, Adelaide, Australia (Part 3): McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills bus tour highlights

Grant Nash Grenache 2024

Grant Nash Grenache Gris 2025

Grant Nash Old Mate 128 Grenache 2025

Vin Sol Ignis Tempranillo 2024

Chapel Hill The MV Bush Vine Grenache 2025

Chapel Hill The MV Shiraz 2024

Chapel Hill The MV Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Vin Sol Flōrus Fiano 2025

Geoff Merrill G&W Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Geoff Merrill Jacko's Shiraz 2018

South Australia leads in sustainability

Jericho Bracken Vineyard Grenache 2024

d’Arenberg The Innocent Weed Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre

Ox Hardy Fiano 2025