Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia

Varietal: 100% Grenache

Tasting notes: Boasting seductive, rose-like aromas, hints of five-spice powder and a deep base of cherry fruit, it's supremely silky in texture, gently filling the mouth with gossamer goodness, then slowly fading into lingering notes of cracked pepper, star anise and even a bit of ginger. While not overly tannic, it's concentrated and balanced

Producer: USA born sommeliers Richard and Carla Rza Betts have a long said great Grenache is the warm climate analogy of Pinot Noir. During many miles and a fair amount of travel around the globe, they always kept their eyes open for the sandy terroir and cool climate that give the best Grenache that extra something special. Their search came to an end in Vine Vale, where they discovered a 150+ year-old Grenache vineyard (The Rza Block) set on sandy soil in one of the coolest microclimates in the Barossa Valley.

Vineyard and Winemaking: The vines are own-rooted, head-trained, and dry- and organically farmed. From this tiny vineyard they make their Sucette Grenache. Winemaking is low-touch, a portion of whole bunch, fermented in open-top fermenters. Grapes are basket pressed to old French oak and left to do their own thing, to preserve all the nuances this lovely old site imparts to the fruit. The result—an elegant but ample, sexy and delicious bottle that the couple say finds it’s way onto their table rather frequently.