The Best 15 Australian Grenache Wines to Try in 2023
When people talk about (red) Australian wine, the mind immediately jumps to Shiraz. But lurking in the background, gaining complexity, nuance, and recognition, is the Grenache grape. The regions of Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are generating some of Australia’s most compelling Grenache wines—both as single varietals and in blends.
The basics: Australian Grenache
Geographical Footprint: The bulk of Australian Grenache finds its roots in South Australia—think Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.
Climate: Australia’s Grenache-friendly climates offer a warm and dry growing season, allowing for deep flavor concentration and richness in the grapes.
Flavor Profile: Expect a smorgasbord of red fruit, notably strawberry and cherry, entwined with black pepper and even a whisper of leather or tobacco on occasion.
Alcohol Levels: Australian Grenache wines can be quite potent, with alcohol percentages often hovering around the 14-15% mark.
Stylistic Range: This is not a one-note grape. The wines can oscillate between vivacious and fruity to complex and brooding.
Price Point: The cost of a bottle can range dramatically, from $15 for entry-level offerings to $80 for collector-worthy bottles.
1. Yangarra Estate Vineyard Old Vine Grenache 2021 – $45
If complexity is your jam, look no further. This McLaren Vale gem comes from vines older than your grandparents and has aging potential to match. On the nose, there are undertones of cherry and raspberry jam, as well as zesty aromas of mint and sage and gentle suggestions of sandalwood. Crispy and juicy mouth with smooth tannins and a delightful finish aided by a savory progression.
2. Torbreck The Steading Grenache – $55
Barossa Valley at its best—rich, sturdy, and elegantly finessed. A wine that’ll make you re-think what Australian Grenache can be. The sip is rich and well-balanced, with a magnificent ruby red color, developing earthy scents, raisins, and tobacco notes.
3. Thistledown Wines Vagabond Grenache – $30
A multi-vineyard blend, this bottle offers a carnival of fruit and spice, all balanced in a food-friendly style.
4. Clarendon Hills Old Vines Grenache – $65
Brooding and intense, this is the bottle you open when you’re pondering life’s mysteries—or just want a deeply satisfying sip. This wine is good, gloriously delicious.
5. Wirra Wirra The Absconder Grenache – $40
Soft yet intense, this McLaren Vale offering dances between plush fruit and structured finesse. Despite the heated and austere taste, it surprises with a delightful mineral, fresh, and balanced note on the finish. Cherries, dark chocolate, and cinnamon stand out, while the sip, with exquisite tannins, is notable for its persistence.
6. S.C. Pannell Grenache – $32
Bright, red fruit-forward, and dangerously drinkable—this wine proves you don’t have to break the bank for a quality Grenache.
7. John Duval Wines Annexus Grenache – $38
Still a new kid on the block but already turning heads for its symphonic balance between fruit, spice, and earth.
8. Two Hands Wines Aerope Grenache – $50
Intricately crafted with a long, rewarding finish. It’s an opera in a bottle, full of drama and allure.
9. d’Arenberg The Derelict Vineyard Grenache 2019 – $25
A wallet-friendly introduction to the world of Aussie Grenache, yet offering complexity far above its price point. With a rich and enveloping sip, it is extremely juicy on the tongue, backed on the finish by exquisite tannins, and the notes of luscious plum jelly that are portrayed on the nose reappear, joined by subtle floral suggestions.
10. Hentley Farm The Old Legend Grenache – $55
Aptly named, this wine is a legend in making—rich, complex, and with a structure that promises years of aging.
11. Ministry of Clouds Grenache 2021 – $35
Melding the old and new—traditional viticulture meets modern winemaking in a bottle that’s endlessly fascinating.
12. Ruggabellus TIMAEUS Grenache – $28
Young, sprightly, and budget-friendly—a perfect pick for an impromptu get-together or casual dinner.
13. Greenock Creek Cornerstone Grenache – $27-30
This wine stands out for its harmonious blend of juicy fruit and complex spice, a crowd-pleaser through and through.
14. Alpha Box & Dice Tarot Grenache – $22
Exceptional quality at an entry-level price. It’s the Grenache that keeps on giving, even to the budget-conscious consumer.
15. Mount Mary Marli Russell RP2 Grenache Blends 2017 – $75
At the pinnacle of Australian Grenache, this wine is a splurge that promises a sophisticated and unrivaled tasting experience. Luxurious and enveloping, with depth and aromatic volume, but silky and direct tannins, sculpted with elegance. A lovely bottle indeed.
