Grenache, Swartland, 2024
A wine that for the past five years at least has leaned toward a more Gredos-inspired, powdery expression of Grenache, the 2024 sees the return to a more impactful, silky and present style, giving more fruit and tannin from the outset underpinned by a good, racy acidity. Plummy with violets, small berries and fresh cherries, there is something so lovely and drinkable and satisfying about this.
critic reviews
The David & Nadia 2024 Swartland Grenache Noir reflects a focused commitment to Grenache, inspired by high-altitude expressions such as Gredos in Spain with granitic soils. Sourced primarily from granite mountain vineyards, the wine sees about one month on skins with 50% whole-bunch fruit, gentle foot treading and gravity handling with infusions rather than pump-overs. Partial carbonic character adds lift, while aging occurs in concrete and older 500-liter barrels. Violet and lavender aromatics rise above a fresh and lively core, with precision and fine focus defining the palate.
The 2024 Grenache Noir is a blend of four vineyards, using 50% whole bunch this year without crushing, matured for 11 months in concrete and 500-litre barrels. This has an open, transparent bouquet with brambly red fruit, pressed roses and touches of Provençal herbs in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, beautifully balanced weight, crisp red berry fruit laced with minerals and touches of brown spices on the finish. This ranks alongside the outstanding '23.