2016 Angove Grenache Shiraz Warboys Vineyard McLaren Vale (Credit Angove)

92 points, AppellationsTen, Michael Rockich

Having tried Angove’s GSM (see my review January 2020) I was anxious to evaluate Angove’s expression of the blend minus the Mourvèdre.  Where the GSM makes for an exceedingly harmonious red-fruit combination, the Grenache Shiraz duo approaches blending from a slightly different direction, providing perfect counterpoint.  The red Grenache fruit lends brightness and a lithe character, while the Shiraz contributes the rich dark fruit and weight.  Yet another prospect from Angove, “down under”, that merits more than just a glance.

Let’s not forget to appreciate Dr. Angove for establishing his medical practice in Australia, which triggered founding his winery there, ultimately providing us the opportunity to enjoy his delicious Rhone style wines.  His rational for the winery included the fact that he had prescribed wine to some of his patients for health issues.  The men and women of the Angove family have been involved in their business over the decades, and currently the fifth generation is active.

The source of the grapes in this wine is Angove’s Estate Warboys Vineyard in McLaren Vale.  Situated in a minor valley, the old Shiraz vines lie on a south facing slope on deep dark loam, stream wash, and underlying alluvial clays.  The Grenache is placed on the north facing slope comprised of shallow dark loam over limestone.  The 2016 yield was about 1 1/2 – 2 tonnes per acre. This wine is Australian Certified as organic.

In 2016 Angove’s Shiraz ripened a week ahead of the Grenache, and was placed into small ½ tonne fermenters, and held for a week for skin maceration at a cool average 8°C.  When the Grenache ripened, it was co-fermented with the Shiraz, then basket-pressed and placed in previously employed French oak hogsheads (about 63 gallons each) and puncheons (about 84 gallons each).

In concert with the traits of the 2016 vintage, this blend presents stunningly in radiant deep ruby shadowed by obsidian hues.  Showcases pungent fragrances of blackberry jam, blueberry pie, and fresh pomegranate.  Really juicy, making a smooth and slippery glide across the palate.  The intense flavor content in this delicious blend is balanced by the acid level which provides the electricity.  Delivers opulent fruit with remarkable purity, ripe sweet tannins, and very good length.  A polished effort with superb balance.  The Grenache in this blend adds exhilaration!  About $44.

A sample for review.