2020 Ministry of Clouds Grenache Carignan

After almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label.
A blend of 66% Grenache (based upon 80 year old bush vines planted into a northerly block atop the Onkaparinga Gorge) and 34% Carignan from Ministry of Clouds own adjacent estate. Both parcels were hand harvested, fermented in traditional open vats, and gently basket pressed. 85% whole-berries were retained to ensure a slow ferment, giving the wine a delicate lift, while the balance is fermented as whole-bunch for sappy structure. The parcels were matured in a mixture of inert tanks and old French oak puncheons for 10 months.

A moreishly rich and seductive blend soaked in juicy red fruits.

Deep dark red core with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Engulfing the nose is a powerful array of red to dark raspberry, ripe cherry and red liquorice aromas which are trailed by subtle earthy graphite, fresh herb and spicy vanillin cedar notes. Moreishly rich and seductive the palate is soaked in red to dark raspberry, juicy cherry and red liquorice fruits. Delicate scorched earth, dried herb and spicy vanillin elements form the underlay. Boasting superb power and a luscious textural feel it finishes with velvet smooth tannins and a long succulent aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.3%