Description
Old McDonald is the original S.C. Pannell Grenache – the one that kicked off Steve’s long love affair with the variety. It comes from 80-year-old bush vines on the Plaisted family’s vineyard in McLaren Vale, rooted deep in ancient Maslin Sands about 80 metres above sea level. This site has been part of Steve’s story since 2004, and the 2023 release marks the penultimate vintage before the vineyard retires from his line-up.
The 2023 season followed a cool La Niña pattern, giving lower yields and slower ripening. The fruit was hand-harvested, with 12% whole bunches in the ferment, then left on skins for a couple of weeks before pressing and ageing in large, old French oak. As always, there’s nothing showy in the winemaking – just balance, patience and an eye for detail.
Compared to the darker, denser 2022, this vintage is lighter and more lifted. Red fruits, spice and rose florals lead the way, the tannins fine and savoury, the texture long and graceful. It’s a beautiful send-off for one of McLaren Vale’s defining Grenache vineyards.
97 points
"It’s a beautifully poised iteration of this cuvée, and just such a delight."
- Marcus Ellis (Halliday Wine Companion)
Customer Reviews
| Price Bracket | $51 to $100 |
| Type | Red |
| Body | Full Bodied |
| Variety | Grenache |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | McLaren Vale |
| Australian State | SA |
| Reviewed By |
James Suckling The Wine Front Halliday Wine Companion The Wine Advocate |
| Critic Score |
97 |
| Alcohol | 14% |
| Size | 750ml |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Closure | Screw Cap |
S.C. Pannell
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