Rusden Christine’s Vineyard Grenache 2021 from Vine Vale in the Barossa is a beautifully aromatic, medium–bodied Grenache, showing the lift and finesse that deep Barossa sand can give old vines. It’s an inviting, red–fruited style rather than a heavy, jammy one, with a strong sense of place.

In the glass you can expect bright red cherries and raspberries with notes of kirsch, lavender, rose petal and baking spice, plus hints of red liquorice, chinotto and subtle earthy tones. The palate sits in true medium–bodied territory, with juicy red fruits, spice and a gently tart, amaro–like twist, wrapped in tight, fine tannins and fresh acidity that keep it feeling long, poised and savoury.

On the table, it’s outstanding with roast lamb, chargrilled lamb cutlets, herb–crusted pork, duck, and baked Mediterranean veg like capsicum, eggplant and zucchini. It also shines with wood–fired pizza, tomato–based pasta, grilled sausages and hard cheeses, making Rusden Christine’s Vineyard Grenache 2021 a superb Barossa red for food–centric dinners and Sunday roasts.