Ochota Barrels 'Green Room' Grenache 2022

Region: McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia
Grape(s): 92% Grenache, 8% Shiraz
Winemakers: Amber & Taras Ochota
Drinks Best: Now - 4 Years

Hailing from the western reaches of McLaren Vale, this blend is astoundingly polished. Its name, The Green Room, references the area where a performer awaits their time upon the stage—but rather than a wobbly understudy, we find a young virtuoso. As winemaker Taras Ochota puts it, this wine is ‘all about coiled tension.’ The grapes are picked early and cold soaked under water until fermentation begins resulting in a lighter body than many Aussie reds, and clean, bright flavors. Rose water, violets, and red currants show through the nose and palate. Four months in neutral oak bring out black pepper and clove. Juicy and vibrant, this wine culminates in a lengthy and spicy finish.

Pairings: Piperade with grilled swordfish steaks and chickpea flour pancakes