Grenache and Shiraz is a perfect combination. Grenache brings a softness and complex fragrance to the blend while Shiraz adds the boldness of fruit and colour plus the firm back palate grip. Like others we wonder if this is not the perfect blend for the Barossa.
Grenache of the quality we require is hard to obtain though with popularity growing we can now be relaxed that the remaining vineyards are safe from being pulled out. Lack of Grenache over many vintages means the last Kitts Creek blend we made was from 2012, a very favourable year for Grenache.
We believe the best way for customers to broaden the drinking range is to start with blends and when comfortable move towards the less familiar varieties which seem confusing, in this case Grenache.
Always recall that somewhere else a variety which is unfamiliar to us will be seen as most desirable. In this case the wines of Chateauneuf du Pape which sell for princely prices are 100% Grenache though a few makers add 5% or so of other varieties.
