The Ochota Barrels story began in a Volkswagen campervan on the Mexican west coast in late 2000. After traveling to some of the world's famous wine and surf regions, Taras and Amber Ochota dreamed of making wine back home in South Australia. And they did for many, many years to global acclaim. It’s been said that no one in Australia rode the wave between minimal intervention/ natural wine styles and more traditional styles than Taras. Sadly, Taras passed away in 2020 following a lengthy illness. Since his passing, Taras’ wife Amber has taken the reins of the Ochota Barrels winery, carrying on the family’s dream and vision.
From Onkaparinga Hills, this organic Grenache comes off a vineyard planted in 1946 with soils composed of red loamy clay with ironstone over deep limestone. The grapes were native fermented with 65% whole bunch, with up to 12 days on skins before being basket pressed to older French barriques for a couple of months. At 11.6 ABV and from 82 year old vines, this wine captures McLaren Vale's sunbaked character while revealing Grenache's overlooked elegant side — bright red fruits and subtle spice. This wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered with a minimal sulphur addition.
Tasting Note
Pouring a very light crimson hue, this gracefully wild Grenache weaves dried herbs, and wild raspberry with a buzzy acidity along the palate. Vibrant and fresh with a savory edge.
Food Pairing
With this Grenache’s crunchy tannins and wild raspberry palate, a holiday turkey will be a natural compliment (cranberry sauce optional). Alternatively, a baked brie would be fab. You could lean sweet with a topping of brown sugar and pecans over the brie or go savoury with sauteed mushrooms.