Drink Ancestor Vine Grenache from the Barossa Valley before you die! Why?
Firstly, the uber ripe, concentrated raspberry flavor and silky smooth texture is next level, Secondly, these vines have been producing wine since Queen Victoria was on the throne ... enough said!
The Barossa Valley in South Australian is still phylloxera free. As a result, it boasts some of the oldest vineyards in the world. Barossa’s Old vine Charter designates vineyards by age: Old, Survivor, Centenarian and Ancestor.
Ancestor Vines are those that are more than 125 years old, which essentially means their life has spanned three centuries! How many foods or beverages are produced from something that has been alive for over three centuries...not many!
When these vines were planted Queen Victoria was still on the throne, Australia wasn’t even a country yet (it was still a collection of British colonies), and Carl Benz was yet to patent the first Motorwagen.
These low yielding, gnarly old vines can produce sublime wines with great intensity and
concentration of flavor. And, they aren’t stupidly expensive with many bottles well under $100.
The Grenache from these ridiculously old vines is typically reminiscent of raspberry and Turkish-delight with floral aromatics of violets, roses and dried herbs and super silky texture. Other varieties also have ancestor vines, including Shiraz, Mourvèdre, cabernet Sauvignon, and semillon. So, if you like the Grenache and the idea of drinking wine produced by ancient vines, check them out.
Top Four Ancestor Vine Grenaches to try before you die!
Probably needless to say, there aren't oodles of these wine out there but they are out there. Check out the links below and see if you can find one near you!