Bondar Wines 'Junto' Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2023

Junto is Spanish for "together", and in this case is a collection of Grenache (88%), Shiraz (6%), Mataro (3%), Carignan (2%) and Counoise (1%). The Grenache is culled from three separate blocks: the lion's share from Bondar's own Rayner Vineyard; a grower five km away in McLaren Flat (with 80 year old vines); and Trott  Wilpena vineyard in Blewitt Springs contribute the balance.

The Shiraz is also home-grown Rayner fruit, while the Mataro is sourced from a grower in the foothills of Willunga, on the famed Kurrajong soils. The tiny addition of Counoise and Carignan are drawn from young plantings in the Rayner Vineyard.

It was all wild-fermented with approximately 15% whole-bunches, then raised in old oak. The blend is put together with the idea that Grenache is the hero, with Shiraz adding supporting flesh and the Mataro spice and structure/tannin while the Carignan and Counoise, lighten the feel of the palate and contribute to the complexity of flavours.