99+ Points - Angus Hughson | Very Limited Stocks Cirillo Estate is world-renowned for guarding the oldest continuously producing Grenache vines on Earth, planted circa 1848. Utilising these 'Ancestor Vines', Winemaker Marco Cirillo produces a stunning array of Grenache, which is famed for their aromatics, finesse, savouriness and longevity. The 2019 Cirillo ‘1850 Ancestor Vine’ Grenache is made from a vineyard planted between 1848 and 1850. Located in the Light Pass sub-region of the Barossa Valley, this is believed to be the oldest continuously producing Grenache vineyard in the world. Because these vines are over 170 years old, they have developed massive, deep root systems that allow them to thrive even in harsh, dry Australian summers. A wine of enormous historical standing with a significant reputation, this 2019 is one of the finest releases yet. Opening with aromas of bright red fruit, chinotto and spice. The palate is medium-bodied with intense yet subtle delicate flavours of cherry and red fruit, sarsaparilla, white pepper and savoury notes. A red wine of superb balance, with silky tannins and a long finish, our limited stocks of the flagship Australian Grenache will not last long. "99 Points. This stunning young 2019 Grenache Ancestor vine, from the country’s oldest vines for this variety delivers an almost perfect mix of pristine primary dark cherry and red licorice aromas lifted by layers of mountain herbs, red earth and meat spices with genuine concentration and focus. Young, compact and still a little shy, it has all the pieces in place with energetic flavours, beautiful composure and refinement yet with a firm base of gravelly tannins before gliding to a pristine finish of astounding length. With the perfume of the 2017 vintage combined with the density of tannins from a year marked by long periods of dry, warm to hot conditions, this is as good as Barossa Grenache gets and may achieve perfection in time. $80. Drink by: 2030-2050"- Angus Hughson, Wine Pilot.
