The 2007 Australian Old Vine Collection Grenache was sourced from a Blewitt Springs vineyard planted in 1910. It was aged for 20 months in five-year-old hogsheads. Dark ruby-colored, it gives up a fragrant aromatic array of lavender, spice box, leather, and black cherry. On the palate, this velvety-textured, easygoing Grenache shows some complexity, savory flavors, and a pure finish. Drink it over the next eight years. It must be said that although this is a very fine effort, there is nothing here to justify the lofty price tag. The owner/winemaker of Gibson Wines is Rob Gibson who left Penfolds to start his own winery.Importer: The Country Vintner; www.countryvintner.com.au

The 2005 Grenache “Old Vine Collection” has a reticent nose of black cherry and black raspberry. The wine is tightly wound on the palate with pleasant, spicy black cherry flavors that will be showier with additional time in the cellar. The owner/winemaker of Gibson Wines is Rob Gibson who left Penfolds to start his own winery.Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (805) 278-9095

A tiny bottling (220 cases) of old-vine Grenache, this wine features lovely aromas of cinnamon, clove and ripe cherries. In the mouth it’s surprisingly elegant, delivering cherry and spice flavors without excessive weight, ending on a slightly tart note. Drink now and over the next 4–5 years.——J.C.(12/31/2007)—— 90

Terrific fruit is a hallmark of the 2004 Grenache Old Vine Collection (a French and American oak-aged cuvee produced from 85-year-old vines). Kirsch liqueur, licorice, spice box, pepper, and roasted herb notes emerge from this big, full, exuberant, extroverted Australian version of a top-notch Chateauneuf du Pape. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283

Lithe, spicy and immensely appealing for its bright red cherry and red plum aromas and flavors, not a big wine, but nicely supple and spicy to be flexible with food. Drink now through 2011. 130 cases made, 30 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add