96 points - "The Stonegarten vineyard, just out of Springton in Eden Valley, is a sought-after source of grenache for some of the region's best producers, the 160+ year old, well-farmed vines are quite a drawcard. The aromatic profile is subtle, filigreed. Red cherry, red plum and raspberry with transitory tones of exotic spice, pressed wildflowers, gingerbread, red licorice, stone, subdued cola and gentle wood spice that flit in and out of view. Harmonious and complex with a gorgeous red fruit profile, layers of spice and a savoury finish that glides away slowly. Lovely." - Dave Brookes (Halliday Wine Companion)

96 points - "The beautifully poised 2022 Grenache Annexus from the Eden Valley is shy right now but will be something special given the time. Right now, it delivers understated meaty and spicy aromas with a dark cherry undertow and oak nicely couched in behind. Fabulous focus and energy follow in a seamless and understated package yet this shows exceptional density of fruit of focus that drives a long, seamless finish." - Angus Hughson (Vinous)

95+ points - "The 2022 Annexus Grenache is lighter in the glass than the 2021 tasted beside it, and yet aromatically, it offers dried mint and raspberry pip, star anise and fennel, strawberry and pomegranate molasses. On the palate, the wine is elegant and detailed; it flows seamlessly across the palate and speaks of chinotto and blood orange. The fruit is fully destemmed prior to fermentation. The Stonegarden Vineyard was planted in 1858 and is a remarkable site in the Eden Valley. Perhaps this 2022 is slightly more modern in its framing than the 2021 tastes beside it. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap." - Erin Larkin (The Wine Advocate)

Background
While Shiraz may have played a leading role in John Duval’s winemaking career, he has long admired the unique qualities of Barossa Grenache. Thanks to long-standing relationships with local grape-growing families, we are able to source Grenache from a priceless resource of old vineyards for our Plexus red blend. In the finest vintages, select parcels of exceptional Grenache are reserved for Annexus Grenache—a wine that showcases the very best fruit from an outstanding vintage, sourced from ancient Barossa vines.

Vintage
The 2022 vintage was set up beautifully, with excellent soil moisture carried over from the mild 2021 season. An October hail event reduced yields in some vineyards, though most escaped significant damage. La Niña weather patterns delivered mild harvest conditions once again, supporting even flavour development and vibrant aromatics and acidity. A standout season.

Vineyard
This Grenache was sourced exclusively from a low-yielding ancestor vineyard over 150 years old in Eden Valley.

Winemaking
Fermentation took place in small open-top fermenters, incorporating a small proportion of whole bunches to highlight Grenache’s savoury character. The wine was then matured for 14 months in seasoned French oak hogsheads. Only 300 cases were produced.

Winemaker’s Notes
Nose: Bright and juicy red cherry, raspberry, and floral top notes with a core of savoury spice and earthy nuances.

Palate: Generous layers of elegant red fruits, earthy spice, and round, juicy tannins.