'Free Borough' Grenache 2023

BACKGROUND

The town of Woodstock, UK - our namesake - was declared a 'Free Borough' by then King of England, Henry VI, in 1453: a home for those living outside of the traditional expectations of society. This wine is reflective of the third generation joining the family business, bringing along fresh energy together with new winemaking ideas that contrast and complement the classic styles traditionally associated with the Woodstock range.

Primary fermentation is a sensory adventure marked by vivid colours and infatuating aromas. Inspired by a tasting bench stained with the bright magenta hues and the intense perfumed fruit aromas of partially fermented grapes, this small batch experiment is a young and joyful expression of Estate-grown Grenache unlike any red wine Woodstock has produced before.

WINEMAKING

Mild ripening conditions and low rainfall contributed to great flavour concentration and even ripening in our Grenache vines over the 2022 growing season. This wine was made with Estate-grown old-vine Grenache, which was machine harvested on a cool March night at 13.5 baume and peak flavour ripeness. Due to brisk evenings during the February/March period the fruit was able to maintain crisp acidity which was integral to the style of wine produced.

Picked from our ‘Block 3’ vineyard, the Grenache is known for its enhanced fruit character and light palate weight. A luscious, fruity style of Dolcetto was used as a blending component to help brighten colour while attributing floral aromatics and freshness to the blend. The wine was fermented and stored in stainless steel tank prior to bottling, retaining the wine’s tannin and acid vibrancy as well as enhancing red fruit aromatics.

THE WINE

Vivid purple and transparent in the glass, this fresh and youthful style of Grenache is all about perfumed aromatics and ripe red fruit. The nose displays confectionery hints of raspberry jubes and red frogs with a splash of Morello cherry. Lively raspberry character persists on the palate, accompanied by exciting zippy acidity and mouth-watering tannins. A juicy style of wine which finishes fresh and slightly savoury, created to enjoy right now!

SERVING SUGGESTION

Serve slightly chilled with your favourite savoury snacks - Free Borough Grenache is best friends with your Friday afternoon charcuterie board.

WINEMAKER
Peter Collett

Varieties: Grenache
Vintage: 2023
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol:13.5%

Vegan Friendly