The Serafino 2022 Reserve Grenache has won the seventh annual James Halliday Grenache Challenge in McLaren Vale with James himself leading a panel of judges.
Serafino CEO Maria Maglieri says, “It’s a testament to the hard work of our entire team and the unique characteristics of our McLaren Vale vineyards.
“It is truly special. This recognition propels us to continue our journey of excellence.”
The Challenge is hosted by the McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association. There were 153 entries from around Australia.
McLaren Vale had the three highest-ranked Grenaches and six of the top ten.
James says, “The makers of Grenache responded jubilantly to the quality of the ’21, ’22 and ’23 growing seasons.
“There is a pattern of finesse, purity and intensity in the medal-winning wines, the best simply beautiful.”
“McLaren Vale has been the beating heart of Grenache’s rediscovery; it really has been front and centre of the Grenache renaissance.”
The judging panel said, “Grenache continues to intrigue and challenge all the judges to be on their game with an exciting and diverse array of styles.
“There were great examples of precise primary aromatic styles alongside the brooding weighted styles which walked the flavour ripeness, varietal definition and alcohol tightrope with varying levels of success…
“Recent vintages certainly look strong in McLaren Vale for Grenache, particularly 2022 which had great varietal definition in many cases.
“Well played winemakers.”
Photo credit: Ben MacMahon.
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