Thistledown Thorny Devil Old Vine Grenache 2025 from McLaren Vale feels like pure old‑vine Grenache joy in the glass – fragrant, vividly red‑fruited and laced with spice, yet carried with that effortless Thistledown finesse. Built from a collection of old bush‑vine sites and seasoned oak, it punches well above its price as one of the country’s best value, provenance‑driven Grenache releases.

Ripe redcurrant, maraschino cherry, rosehip tea and kirsch come first, drifting into rosewater, dried petals and gentle souk‑like spice – all perfume and allure without getting heady or sweet. Then the palate tightens the screws in the best way: expressly fruity and open, but shaped by detailed, quietly complex tannins and natural tension that keep things savoury and serious. It is medium‑bodied, vibrant and layered, with that McLaren Vale perfume and spice sitting over fine structure rather than weight.

At the table, Thistledown Thorny Devil Old Vine Grenache 2025 is a clever match for North African‑spiced lamb, duck with cherry or pomegranate glaze, charcuterie, or simply roast chook with herbs and crispy skin. It is also right at home with wood‑fired pizza, grilled Mediterranean vegetables or a grazing board, making it a brilliant “red for all seasons” that both Grenache die‑hards and curious Shiraz drinkers can get around.