Escape 'Grenache'

"We escaped our homeland to find freedom and peace." 

(Hoa Thi Nguyen)

Under the cover of darkness my father sailed our ghe into the unknown. Was it bravery, stupidity or sheer desperation? The risk was huge. Capture meant death. The chances of survival at sea were near zero. Against the odds, after two months we made it.

I feel of all the grape varieties, Grenache represents Vietnam well — fun, aromatic and vibrant but also dangerously delicate. If handled carefully, Grenache is full of grace and joy. But if handled incorrectly… well, we all know about the Vietnam war.

Made from a single block of old Grenache bush vines planted in the early 1900s.  An intense, rich and robust Barossa Grenache with plenty of varietal flavours of ripe red raspberry.  24 months maturation in seasoned French oak has produced a smooth and lingering finish that will continue to improve with age. 

"Many experienced great suffering and loss, yet clung to hope" (Tong Huynh)

Five years we spent in refugee camps in Hong Kong. Stuck in limbo, stateless and unwanted, amid violence, filth and desperate suffering, hope was the only thing we could cling to. 

Grenache Shiraz Mataro (GSM) is a blend that epitomises the Barossa Valley tradition. It also resonates with my time growing up in Hong Kong. Mataro is a variety that is difficult to work with on its own, but perfectly enhances the two classic varieties of Grenache and Shiraz. Much as Hong Kong contributed to the slight mongrel in me, moulding me into a more rounded and resilient person.

A traditional blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Shiraz and 10% Mataro. Grapes from old bush vines are handpicked and crafted. The secret is simple; fruit quality and the gentle but lengthy maturation in French oak barrels. The result is a fruit driven wine with exceptional length that will cellar for decades.