Bondar Grenache Rose 2023

$25.99

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First Glance: Red currant, savoury undertones, dry, refreshing
Acclaim: 93 points

A young Andre Bondar caught the wine-bug back in 2001 and between then and starting Bondar wines with his wife Selina in 2012/13, he amassed an impressive bag of vinous experience. Years of working at wineries both domestically, in the US and in France, including a transformational stint at Rhone producer Alain Graillot, led the couple to start their own project, making wines after their own ideals. And so they have, to great critical acclaim, from the elevated Blewitt Springs area in McLaren Vale, as well as with purchased fruit from trusted growers in the Adelaide Hills. The vinous DNA of Bondar is one of medium-weight and supremely detailed wines that are non-dogmatic at their core, yet still manage to feel like classic expressions of their respective sites.

The rosé at Bondar is more than an afterthought. It is put together from 3 sites of primarily old vine Grenache on sandy soils. Around 1/3 is from Bondar's own 50yo vineyard in Blewitt Springs, which is fermented at moderately higher temperatures in old oak, to build some weight and complexity. The rest is sourced from growers in the Vale and is fermented cool and crisp in tank, to add brightness and drive. The result is a beautifully dry and refreshing wine, but also slightly savoury and mineral, with plenty of food-friendliness to it.

The Review:
93 points, Gary Walsh, The Wine Front
A cheeky 15% Cinsault in the blend, along with Grenache.

Classic style, and all just so. Redcurrant, raspberry, rosehip, a light chalky grip, balanced acidity, dry and crunchy, but also has some gloss and glide. Finish is long, with a subtle savoury twist. Delightful.

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Bondar Grenache Rose 2023

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