Price Drop: David & Nadia Grenache Noir 2022

This South African Grenache from Swartland showcases the cooler climate influence and unique terroir of the region, producing more restrained fruit character compared to warmer Australian regions. The deep clay soils and old vines contribute to greater complexity and mineral undertones, while the organic farming practices enhance the wine's natural expression. The result is a more European-style Grenache with elegant perfumed qualities and earthy nuances rather than the jammy, high-alcohol profile often found in hotter climates.

The exceptional 94-point rating reflects the wine's perfect balance between fruit purity and terroir expression, hallmarks of outstanding Grenache. James Suckling likely recognised the seamless integration of red berry flavours with earthy complexity, plus the wine's impressive structure from old vines planted in clay soils. The organic farming practices and David & Nadia's minimal intervention winemaking philosophy would have contributed to the wine's authentic character and exceptional quality that merits such high praise.

While charcuterie is ideal, this medium-bodied Grenache's versatility shines with roasted lamb seasoned with herbs, duck confit, or mushroom-based dishes that complement its earthy truffle notes. The wine's balanced acidity and gentle tannins make it excellent with Mediterranean cuisine like ratatouille or grilled vegetables with olive oil. For cheese pairings, try aged Gouda or Manchego, which harmonise beautifully with the wine's vanilla undertones and red fruit character.

Old vines naturally produce lower yields, concentrating flavours and creating more complex, nuanced wines with greater depth than younger plantings. These mature Grenache vines have extensive root systems that penetrate deep into Swartland's clay soils, accessing diverse mineral layers that contribute to the wine's earthy complexity and distinctive terroir expression. The vines' age also provides natural balance, producing fruit with optimal sugar-acid ratios that translate into the wine's elegant, restrained style rather than overpowering intensity.

The textured aspect refers to the wine's substantial mouthfeel and layered complexity, created by the combination of old vines, clay soils, and careful winemaking that builds structure without heaviness. Savoury indicates the wine moves beyond simple fruit flavours to include earthy, herbal, and mineral elements like truffle and spice notes that add sophistication. This style profile suggests a wine that rewards contemplation, offering different flavour discoveries with each sip rather than straightforward fruit-forward drinking.