# The Vagabond Old Vine Grenache (2021)

- **Producer:** Thistledown Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, strawberry, dried herbs, raspberry, black cherry, red plum, black plum, spice, vanilla, cloves, leather, dried fruit, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Thistledown The Vagabond Old Vine Grenache 2021 is a 100% Grenache from the Blewitt Springs district of McLaren Vale, South Australia. This region is recognized for its significant old vine Grenache plantings. The wine is produced by Thistledown Wines, founded by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan, who focus on creating wines that express their terroir. The 2021 vintage benefited from a mild climate, allowing for extended grape ripening. The wine is a limited production, with only 3,833 bottles made.

## Interesting facts

- Sourced from four separate old vine plots in Blewitt Springs.
- A portion fermented in a unique concrete pyramid.
- Only 3,833 bottles produced.
- Certified member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and fine tannins complement the richness of proteins like lamb, duck, and venison. Its savory spice notes resonate with North African and game dishes, while its fruit character can balance richer meats.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Thistledown The Vagabond Old Vine Grenache 2021 involves several distinctive techniques. Approximately two-thirds of the grapes were wild fermented in a concrete pyramid, utilizing alternating layers of whole bunches and crushed fruit without mechanical extraction. The remaining grapes were wild fermented in an open fermenter with 35% whole bunches, hand-plunged twice daily. Following fermentation, the wine was aged in a concrete egg and oak puncheons. The wine is intentionally left unfined and unfiltered. The grapes are sourced from dry-grown, bush-trained old vines.