The 2022 Brash Higgins Smart Vineyard Grenache is a remarkable single-vineyard Grenache sourced from the heritage Smart Vineyard in Clarendon, one of McLaren Vale's highest and coolest sub-regions. Planted in 1955, these old vines grow on rocky, ironstone-rich soils, producing fruit of exceptional perfume and finesse. Handpicked and wild fermented with 50% whole bunches, the wine spent 20 months maturing in seasoned French oak puncheons, allowing the vineyard's distinctive character to shine. The nose is beautifully aromatic, revealing red cherry, wild raspberry and dried rose petals layered with orange peel, liquorice root, warm spice and subtle earthy minerality, delivering an elegant and highly expressive bouquet.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with silky, fine-grained tannins and vibrant natural acidity that provide both freshness and structure. Layers of juicy red fruits, cinnamon, hazelnut and gentle savoury spice are supported by a distinctive ferrous mineral edge, leading to a long, refined finish with impressive purity and persistence. Graceful yet quietly powerful, this is a beautifully crafted Grenache that captures both the old-vine pedigree of the Smart Vineyard and Brash Higgins' thoughtful, minimal intervention approach.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2022 Brash Higgins Smart Vineyard Grenache is an elegant, site-driven Grenache that rewards both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring. Pair it with roast lamb, duck breast, chargrilled pork, mushroom dishes, Mediterranean cuisine or aged hard cheeses. Enjoy now with a short decant, or cellar confidently through 2035+.
