Thistledown, Walking With Kings Roussanne-Grenache Blanc, South Australia, Australia, 2023

Producer Profile

Thistledown was founded by Master of Wine, Giles Cooke who had a vision for a more elegant, textural interpretation of Australian wine.

Initial explorations resulted in access to many of the best vineyards, many of which were the previously unloved Old Vine Grenache. Incredible, historic fruit sources coupled with Giles’ increasingly adept efforts has quickly resulted in a reputation for being amongst the best in the country. Narrating the stories of these wines to an increasingly attentive global audience is Giles’ heartfelt commitment and mission.

Viticulture

Hand-picked Roussanne from Sellicks Hill, biodynamic Grenache Blanc from the Riverland.

Winemaking

Both varieties are hand picked and fermented separately. Roussanne is whole bunch pressed, lightly settled and wild fermented in French oak. Grenache is oxidatively handled prior to wild ferment in barrel. The two components blend prior to bottling.

Tasting Note

A richly textured white wine inspired by the great whites of the Rhône, this is creamy, aromatic and jam packed full of exotic notes from the Roussanne and more vibrant, green apple from Grenache. The end result is a wine so versatile, complex yet so moreish.

Food Matching

Rich seafood, creamy sauces and Asian cuisine

Awards

Jancis Robinson 17/20
70% Roussanne from Sellicks Hills, 30% biodynamic Grenache Blanc from Kangarilla. Both varieties are hand-picked and fermented separately. Roussanne is whole-bunch pressed, lightly settled and ambient-yeast fermented in French oak. Grenache is oxidatively handled prior to ambient-yeast ferment in barrel. The two components blended prior to bottling. Golden colour (rare for Australia!). Lively and racy but with good fruit density and a herbal top note too. Well done! Really interesting blend. 17 Points, JR, April 2025.