The development and naming of this wine is in many ways symbolic of the evolution of John Duval Wines as they bring together two generations of the Duval family in the business with Tim Duval joining his father John ahead of the 2016 vintage. And whilst they continue our love of working with old Barossa vineyards, this wine also reflects the style evolution of Barossa Grenache that is being led by the region’s many small artisan winemakers. Concilio Grenache was jointly conceived by John and Tim, and is a wine representative of the ever broadening shift away from the sweet, confectioned expressions of Barossa Grenache prevalent in the 1990’s, to wines that display more vibrancy, texture and savouriness. Wines that represent what they admire most of this variety, and wines that are eminently suitable to accompanying food.
VINTAGE
The 2023 vintage was the third vintage in a row influenced by La Nina weather patterns. Vineyards had excellent soil moisture and produced healthy crops, which combined with the cooler conditions to produce a late start to harvest.
VINEYARDS
For this fifth release of Concilio, Grenache (86%) was sourced from survivor bush vines located south of Tanunda and an old vine parcel from Moppa. Shiraz (14%) was sourced from a single vineyard at Ebenezer, selected for its savoury notes and plush texture to complement the Grenache.
WINEMAKING
Grenache fermentation occurred in small open top fermenters for 9 days with up to one third whole bunches to provide aromatic lift and enhance the savouriness of the wine. The shiraz component spent 7 days on skins with twice daily pump overs with a small whole bunch inclusion. The grenache was matured in a mix of tank (50%) and seasoned French hogsheads (50%) for 8 months. Shiraz was matured in seasoned French oak for 8 months.
WINEMAKERS NOTES
NOSE: Vibrant, bright raspberries and cranberries with hints of savoury spice.
PALATE: A medium bodied, soft textured wine of bright juicy red fruit that glides across the length of the palate, finishing with a gentle lick of savoury tannin. Best enjoyed in its youth and with gusto.
South Australia | Liquor Licence No: 57007320