Willunga 100 'The Tithing' Grenache 2010

Made only in exceptional vintages, the 'Tithing' in Saxon represented a sub-unit of the '100'. Whereas the '100' represented 100 households, the 'Tithing' was the next level down, representing around 10 households (I never knew they were into decimilisation so early...)

Grenache specialists Willunga 100 sent on a few samples for International Grenache Day, of all the 'insert grape variety' days that have - or still - exist, Grenache for me has always been the one that at least has its roots founded with serious intent, for the betterment of the variety, being born out of the International Grenache Symposium.

For 2014, there is an International Grenache Day, falling on 19th September, refer to Facebook if you're keen to find out more.

That's a rather long-winded preamble to get to the wine in question.

Red fruits familiar to the variety and the region, yet it eschews the overt raspberry jam that can curse some examples. In tandem with the lighter red fruit, it possesses a darker, savoury bent.

A wine medium of body, just veering toward fulness, the savoury and spice elements mesh together well and move toward notes of liquorice. Fine tannins, supple, a little char, it somehow belies its 14+% alcohol, with a deftness and elegance through the finish. An impressive example. 93

Tasted on: Monday 25th August, a Leaf to Fruit day
Source: Sample
Price: $40
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Website: http://willunga100.com

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