Vanguardist McLaren Vale Mourvedre 2022

Vanguardist McLaren Vale Mourvedre 2022
Mourvèdre sourced from Yangarra Estate, which is both organic and Bio-dynamic certified.

At the core of our winemaking philosophy is a profound belief in the potential of Rhône varieties here in South Australia. This focus is an integral part of our master plan, guiding every step of our winemaking journey. This is the third iteration of this wine, and grown just a stone's throw away from the Vanguardist Grenache (Rende) site. We have become staunch advocates of the captivating potential Mourvèdre holds in the Australian terroir.

Handpicked on the 23rd of March, the moderate temperatures and well timed summer rainfall, played a pivotal role in shaping the unique character of this vintage. A slow period of ripening has contributed to the tension and powerful mineral fruit in the wine. The final blend has 30% whole bunch, which has built layers of complexity and structure, whilst showcasing the distinct terroir.

Maturation is a carefully orchestrated dance, with the wine spending two months in puncheons, followed by a substantial 16 months in large format oak (Foudre). Finally two months in stainless steel tank, before making its way into the bottle.

"2800 bottled produced. 30% whole bunch. From the Yangarra Vineyard, a stones through away from Rende (source of Grenache). Tasted alongside the (excellent) 2021, and this wine a little more fleshy and savoury, a little less cool and ‘minerally’, perhaps.

Signature of classic Mataro rides high here. It’s meaty, orange peel and lavender, blue and black fruit, dried herb and spice, some liquorice. Medium-bodied, feel the tactile grip of tannin, the wild savoury meat and herb flavours, black olive, delicious grainy chew to it, and beef jerky. It’s taking a walk on the wild side, with a dry silty tannin finish of excellent length. It’s earthy and assertive. You want it darker? I’m ready my Lord." 95 Points - Gary Walsh, The Wine Front