2023 S.C. Pannell Old McDonald Grenache 750ml

From 81-year-old vines planted to deep Maslin Sands. Fermented with 12% whole bunches over two weeks, then settled in tank for a month; élevage in a 4500L old French oak vat. This is spicy, lifted, with the depth that this site always displays, the layering of fruit, spice and mineral inflection all visible, but the old-vine intensity viewed though through a cooler lens. Red fruited, with berries, cherries and pomegranate, fresh red florals, musk and blood orange, the tannins so impeccably fine and graceful, yet no less purposeful and savoury. The fruit clings to the tannins – like flesh to a cherry pit – without spilling out. It’s a beautifully poised iteration of this cuvée, and just such a delight.

97 Points - Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion