Two summery BBQ Grenache-driven reds from – get curious – La Curio

Double barrel Grenache

I’ve been on a bit of a McLaren Vale Grenache gig of late, especially for so-called warm climate Pinot Noir expressions like McLaren Vale’s Chapel Hill Bush Vine Grenache 2011 and Ochota Barrels The Fugazi Vineyard Grenache 2012 (see here and here).

So La Curio’s latest releases, listed by Laithwaite’s Wines, caught my eye. Here are my notes on a pair of summer BBQ perfect reds:

La Curio Bush Vine Grenache 2011 McLaren Vale

I met with winemaker Adam Hooper in 2010. He adopts a more traditional approach to the variety than Chapel Hill or Ochota Barrels, using an element of new oak, which puts the aromatic emphasis more on oak spice – cedar and vanilla.  Nonetheless in the mouth (especially on day 2), this really speaks of the vintage, with restrained, juicy, silky raspberry and red cherry fruit and really attractive old vine (averaging 100 years old +) earthy, savoury liquorice spice undertones.  A lovely wine, which would work well with BBQ salmon or tuna.  14.5% abv (worn lightly).  Click here for my note of the (more flamboyant) 2009 vintage.  £19.99 at Laithwaites; bottled under cork.

La Curio The Nubile Grenache Shiraz 2010 McLaren Vale

Bottled under screwcap, this blend of 70% Grenache/30% Shiraz is a summery, mid-weight red with really succulent red cherry and sweet plum fruit and a lick(orice) of spice.  Grainy tannins lend a touch of grip to the finish without detracting from its sense of fluidity.  Herb-crusted lamb chops anyone?  Or garlic and herb breadcrumb stuffed portabella mushrooms. 14.5% (again worn well).  £17.99 at Laithwaites; screwcapped.