A vibrant McLaren Vale red with juicy dark fruits, spice, and silky tannins.

The Ministry of Clouds Carignan Grenache 2024 is a modern, medium-bodied blend that celebrates the Mediterranean varieties thriving in McLaren Vale. Juicy, bright, and finely textured, it’s a wine that combines freshness with depth, perfect for both casual and refined dining.

Why You’ll Love It

This blend showcases the savoury energy of Carignan balanced by the plush red fruit of Grenache. The result is a layered, food-friendly red with both vibrancy and sophistication, approachable now but structured enough for short-term cellaring.

Halliday Wine Companion - 94 Points

60/40% grenache/carignan. This is gorgeously lifted and perfumed, floral and finely red fruited, dusted with white pepper, fennel seed, celery salt and sun-warmed flowering woody herbs. Effortlessly mid-weight, this floats across the palate – it’s a house signature – though clearly with deep consideration to crafting food-grade tannins, which are a quiet but determined presence. Excellent. Marcus Ellis

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Red cherry, raspberry, and plum with hints of spice, violets, and dried herbs.

• Palate: Juicy red and dark fruits framed by spice, supple tannins, and savoury lift.

• Finish: Long, silky, and refreshing with lingering red berry brightness.

Food Pairing

Perfect alongside chargrilled lamb, roasted duck, or pork with fennel. Its savoury spice also makes it an excellent vegetarian partner for mushroom dishes, ratatouille, or chargrilled eggplant.

About the Winery

Founded by winemakers Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood, Ministry of Clouds has become one of McLaren Vale’s most exciting producers. With a focus on balance, finesse, and respect for site, their wines draw inspiration from both Old World and New World traditions. Their vineyards are sustainably farmed, and their minimal-intervention winemaking style has earned them critical acclaim for elegance and authenticity.

Cellaring Potential

Delicious in its youth for vibrancy and freshness, but will develop added savoury complexity and harmony with short-term ageing. Drink now to 2030.

Collector’s Note

The 2024 Carignan Grenache highlights Ministry of Clouds’ reputation for crafting stylish Mediterranean-inspired blends. Consistently recognised by critics, the winery is rated among the most dynamic in McLaren Vale, making this a smart addition for collectors seeking modern expressions of the region.

Details

• Winery: Ministry of Clouds (McLaren Vale, South Australia)

• Vintage: 2024

• Variety: Carignan, Grenache blend

• Style: Medium-bodied red

• Suitable for Vegans

• Sustainably farmed vineyards / Minimal-intervention approach