Cirillo Wines
In the sandy soils of Vine Vale, Barossa Valley, Marco Cirillo quietly tends to one of the wine world’s most remarkable treasures. His family’s vineyard, home to the world’s oldest continuously producing Grenache vines planted in 1848, offers a rare connection to Australia’s viticultural past. Earlier this year we took a trip to Marco's vineyard to get a feel for these vines and wines in situ - and there with Grenache in your glass and sand under your feet, it hits different.
This year, Cirillo Wines celebrates its roots with two releases: the 2018 Cirillo 1850 Ancestor Vine Grenache and the ever-reliable Vincent Grenache, a wine often called one of the country’s best-value reds.
A Family’s Life Among the Vines
For over 50 years, Marco and his late father, Vincent, have been the sole caretakers of this historic vineyard. Their approach is simple but profound: care for the vines, honour the land, and preserve it for the next generation.
From basket pruning—an old Calabrian technique Vincent brought to the Barossa by his father—to a commitment to organic farming, the Cirillo family has nurtured these vines with steadfast dedication.
“It’s about leaving a sustainable vineyard. It’s the passing on the oldest site in the world for Grenache and Semillon for the next generation in the best possible condition.”
- Marco Cirillo (YGOW)
The 1850 Ancestor Vine Grenache
The 2018 Cirillo 1850 Ancestor Vine Grenache is the pinnacle of this vineyard’s history, made from vines that have been producing fruit since before Australian federation. Marco allows these vines to dictate the wine, focusing on purity and balance.
Picked early to retain freshness and matured in seasoned oak, the wine is a precise expression of Grenache. Red plum, wild strawberries, and gentle spice are framed by fine, sandy tannins. It’s layered and restrained, with a long finish that speaks to the depth of the fruit. Critics have awarded it 97 points, praising its clarity, structure, and connection to the Barossa’s history.
Vincent Grenache: Everyday Joy
The Vincent Grenache, named for Marco’s father, offers a brighter, more approachable take on Barossa Grenache. With a portion of whole-bunch fermentation lending lift and texture, and a focus on older oak and stainless steel to highlight fruit, it’s a wine that’s all about effortless enjoyment.
“Twenty years ago, when I started this process, people said, ‘Don’t make Grenache and don’t make the style that you’re making.’ But now it’s having a moment in the sun. When people are no longer excited about Grenache, I’ll still do what I’ve always done: make Grenache.”
- Marco Cirillo (Wine Australia)
Savvy drinkers have taken notice of its quality at a stunning price. Dave Brookes of Halliday Wine Companion even asked, “Is this the best-value red wine in Australia?” It’s an accolade that fits—the Vincent delivers a balance of drinkability, heritage, and quality that’s hard to match.
Two Wines, One Story
These two wines may serve different purposes, but they share a common heart. The 1850 Ancestor Vine Grenache honours the vineyard’s unparalleled history, while the Vincent Grenache brings that same heritage into everyday moments.
“We make wine our way. I’ve never made wine for a market or a scene or a movement. This is what we do, this is how I’ll continue to do things,” Marco says.
Whether it’s the Vincent with a midweek meal or the 1850 Ancestor Vine on a special occasion, these wines offer a chance to connect with a remarkable slice of Australian winemaking history.
