Schwarz Wine Co. Meta Grenache 2018

Mark this down as another example of the rebounding fortune of Australian Grenache.

The Schwarz wines are always charismatic, and the somewhat experimental Meta wines are even more individual. This Grenache particularly so.

A proudly different Barossa Grenache, this comes from handpicked grapes, the fruit wild fermented with a staggering 85% whole bunches in the mix. Matured just in tank, then bottled unfined and unfiltered.

It’s a delicious tangy, rather pretty red in a curranty, juicy form, even despite all the whole bunches. Sure, there’s sappy bunchy spice, but the prettiness of the fruit, and the sheer joy of the thing makes it a perfect match.

Bright and beautiful, plump, yet spicy and tannic, it’s just a joy. The tannins aren’t hard either. A delightful wine. Best drinking: Good now and for up to ten years. 18.5/20, 94/100. 13.8%, $35. Would I buy it? Yes.