Description
Parallax: Parallax is when an object appears to change its position because the person or instrument perceiving it has changed their position.
Parallax Grenache… the object is the same, Grenache… but the winery perceiving it has changed their position… hence the emergence of a neoteric expression of this classic old vine Barossa varietal…
Grenache is one of the most widely planted red wine grape varieties in the world. It is typically harvested late in the season when it is fully ripe to display gorgeous rich sweet red fruit characters and soft supple tannins with a generous and supple mouthfeel. But when harvested early in the season a divergent and equally impressive wine can result.
Parallax Grenache is picked 2-3 weeks earlier than normal and combined with fermentation on stalks and minimal maturation has resulted in an admirably divergent wine compared to the norm from this variety, showing the versatility of Grenache.
Growing Season
Vintage 2023 has produced exceptional wines. It was the longest and latest on record, stretching from mid-March to early-May. The vines got off to a superb start with a wet and cool Spring providing plenty of sub-soil moisture for the growing season ahead. Summer brought typically average temperatures and was generally dry with occasional finite rain. The vines were in fantastic condition for slow and steady ripening into Autumn with its mild days, cool nights, and isolated light rain. Yields from 2023 are good and quality is excellent.
Vineyard
Parallax is a single-vineyard wine from a low yielding Grenache vineyard. The soil is sandy loam with quartz, ironstone and subsoil clay, providing optimal conditions for these vines.
Winemaking
The Grenache was harvested on March 21st whilst bright, fresh and juicy with perfect natural acid. The grapes were crushed and all stalks were included in the fermenters to add tannin, structure and complexity. The native wild yeast from the vineyard were left to naturally ferment with temperature peaking at 24 degrees C. The fermenting juice was circulated over the skins and stalks with twice-daily pump-overs for gentle extraction. After 8 days on skins, the must was pressed to tank for natural malolactic fermentation and brief maturation prior to bottling.
Tasting Notes
Colour:
2023 Parallax is luminous cherry-red in colour.
Aroma:
Aromatically it is bright and fresh. Super-inviting notes of flower garden, crushed raspberry, white pepper spice, strawberry, red liquorice and thyme
Palate:
These lively characters continue to the light and bright palate. Superbly juicy, oozing with crunchy fresh red fruits. Cherry, strawberry and a touch of herb. Naturally chalky tannins give structure. A stalky edge is evident giving frame to the vibrant fruits. Whilst light and lively throughout, the depth and interest of flavour makes for a compelling wine, completed with a long finish.
Recommended Drinking:
Parallax is best enjoyed now or over the next five years.