Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache

Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache: A Detailed Tasting Experience

The Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache is an Australian red wine from the McLaren Vale region, known for its expressive Grenache grapes. This enticing bottle offers a delightful journey for the senses, perfect for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

Visual:

Pour yourself a glass of the Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache and admire its vibrant crimson colour. The wine boasts a youthful depth, with tinges of purple hues hinting at its potential for further development. As it swirls in the glass, observe the medium viscosity, indicating a well-structured and flavourful wine.

Aromatic Profile:

On the nose, the Grenache character shines through. Expect an explosion of fresh, red fruit aromas like cherries and raspberries. Look beyond the initial burst to find intriguing supporting characters. Delicate floral notes like violets intermingle with hints of spice, such as cinnamon and black pepper. A subtle earthiness adds complexity, hinting at the wine's maturation in soil-influenced cellars.

Palate:

The first sip of the Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache reveals a juicy and medium-bodied wine. The initial fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully, with a burst of sweet cherry and plum. As the wine lingers on the palate, darker fruit notes of blackberry and mulberry emerge, complemented by a touch of licorice. The tannins are present but smooth, offering a pleasant structure without overwhelming the fruit. A balanced acidity cuts through the richness, keeping the wine refreshing and lively.

Mouthfeel:

The texture of the Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache is delightful. Medium-bodied, it offers a satisfying weight on the palate without feeling heavy. The smooth tannins provide a pleasant grip, while the balanced acidity keeps the wine feeling fresh and inviting for another sip.

Finish:

The finish of the Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache is lingering and satisfying. The fruity flavours gently fade, leaving behind a touch of spice and a hint of earthiness. The smooth tannins create a pleasant dryness, encouraging another sip to explore the wine's complexity further.

Food Pairing:

The Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache's versatility makes it a fantastic food pairing partner. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Grilled meats: The wine's juicy fruit character and smooth tannins complement grilled meats beautifully. Pair it with lamb chops, grilled sausages, or a juicy steak.
• Roasted vegetables: Earthy roasted vegetables like eggplant, peppers, and mushrooms find a perfect match in the Grenache's subtle earthiness.
• Hearty stews: Rich stews like beef bourguignon or lentil stew benefit from the wine's fruitiness and acidity, which helps cut through the richness.
• Hard cheeses: Aged cheddar or Gouda cheese pair well with the wine's bold fruit flavours and smooth tannins.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache, serve it at a slightly cool room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting the wine for 30 minutes before serving can help soften the tannins and allow the aromas to develop further.

Conclusion:

The Simon Hackett Big Rivers Old Vine Grenache is a captivating Grenache expression from McLaren Vale. It delivers a delightful balance of fruit, spice, and earthiness, making it a versatile food pairing partner. Whether you're a seasoned Grenache drinker or looking to explore this unique grape variety, this bottle promises a satisfying and memorable experience.