d'Arenberg The Custodian Grenache 2017
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Wine
Enthusiast -
James
Suckling
Product Details
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Somm Note
Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
The Custodian has always been big boned for a Grenache, but perhaps due in part to the relatively cool 2017 vintage, this bottling offers freshness and poise. It opens with aromas of cherry and mocha, underscored by spice and floral tones. There's a lovely crunch to the red berry fruit in the mouth. The tannins creep up slowly and then are raspy and a bit austere. The fruit wears them well, though, making this an appealing barbecue wine.
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James Suckling
Aromas of red fruit and flowers abound with earth, bracken and spice. The palate has assertive, punchy red fruit and a wrap of juicy, vibrant tannin. Medium body.
Other Vintages
2019-
Wine
Enthusiast -
James
Suckling
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Wine
Enthusiast
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James
Suckling
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James
Suckling
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Wilfred
Wong
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Wine &
Spirits
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Wine &
Spirits
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Wine
Spectator -
Robert
Parker
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Wine &
Spirits
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Wine
Spectator -
Robert
Parker
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Robert
Parker
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Robert
Parker
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Wine &
Spirits
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Robert
Parker
d'Arenberg is one of the undisputed kings of Australian Shiraz and other Rhone varieties that have historically defined the region. A century on, their vineyards have grown to some 450 acres in McLaren Vale, including Shiraz dating back to d'Arenberg's first plantings in 1912, and nearly one-third of McLaren Vale's old bush-vine Grenache. Fourth generation winemaker, Chester Osborn, recently converted all of the family's vineyards to organics and biodynamics and moved to solar energy in the winery. All the while, in terms of winemaking, not much has changed--all the wines are basket-pressed, the reds foot-trodden during fermentation; everything is done in small batches, leading to an impressive array of bottlings every year, each showing a different facet of McLaren Vale terroir. Having been inducted into Wine & Spirits Magazine's Hall of Fame for earning a place on its Top 100 Wineries nine times, this accolade is a reflection of d'Arenberg's revered reputation worldwide.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.