2025 Paul Osicka Heathcote Grenache - Last Stocks

Intensely flavoured, energetic and bursting with succulence, this is a sublime example of Heathcote Grenache.

Established in 1955 by former Czech vigneron Paul Osicka, this is Heathcote’s oldest producer, 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of the vineyard's planting. The 2025 vintage is considered outstanding for Heathcote ranked alongside other great years such as 2010, 2015 & 2022 all characterised by consistently warm weather without hot days.
Dark red core with black tinged edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant red to dark raspberry, liquorice and ripe cherry scents flow out of the glass with splendid intensity. Fresh herb, delicate scorched earth and pepper notes ensue. Rich, intensely flavoured and super juicy yet relatively light on its feet, the mid weighted palate is swamped with dark raspberry, red liquorice and cherry fruits. Vanillin spice, subtle earth and pepper elements lurk underneath. Boasting magnificent power, it has polished yet structured tannins which impart a subtle muscularity to the mouth feel. Wonderfully fresh and bursting with succulence, it finishes with impressive length and energy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews......
Timing is everything, and grenache has timed its run in Heathcote to perfection, bringing a vivacious, lively addition to the region's red wine stable. Bright, super fresh in acidity, with lithe tannins and an underlying current that runs deep in fruit flavour. Juicy red cherries, plum and blue fruits with dried herbs, red licorice, gentle spices and earth. Delivers an impressive grenache experience. Drink by 2033.
94 points
Jeni Port - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Grenache is a hot topic in Australia right now. And frankly, I think that's good. When farmed with expressiveness and detail in mind, the variety is impressively eloquent, and the wine can deliver the delicacy and nuance of Pinot Noir, albeit across a different spectrum of textures, flavors and personality. Here, the 2025 Majors Creek Vineyard Grenache leads with raspberry seed and aniseed, pink peppercorn and asphalt. The tannins are chalky, a little sandy, grippy and chewy, with the fruit as a protected core within. This has purity and earthiness in equal measure, with tannins that linger long after the wine has gone. I fairly love this. Full disclosure: I poured this and went for a cup of tea right after, so it had some time to sit in the glass. I recommend either a quick decant or a Pinot Noir glass to let it reach its full potential. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2026-2035.
95 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate