Bondar Junto GSM 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Rayner Vineyard, located in the prestigious McLaren Vale region, spans approximately 20 hectares, with about three-quarters of this land planted with vines. The vineyard is uniquely situated on the border of the Blewitt Springs and Seaview sub-regions, each contributing distinctive characteristics to the wine. Blewitt Springs is known for its deep sandy soils, which help in retaining moisture, while Seaview provides elevation and cooler temperatures, enhancing the balance and complexity of the wines.

McLaren Vale itself is a renowned wine region in Australia, known for its Mediterranean climate, which is ideal for cultivating robust and flavorful grapes like Grenache and Shiraz. The region's proximity to the Gulf St. Vincent and the Adelaide Hills moderates the climate, providing cooling breezes that ensure the grapes mature slowly and evenly​​.

Winemaking

The Bondar Junto GSM is a blend of Grenache, Shiraz, and Mataro, with small amounts of Carignan and Counoise. The Grenache grapes come from an estate block and two other vineyards, including the 65-year-old Trott Vineyard in Blewitt Springs and McLaren Flat with vines over 80 years old on sand. The Shiraz is sourced entirely from the Rayner Vineyard, with 70-year-old vines on sandy soil, and the Mataro comes from Willunga on rocky clay soil. Recent plantings of Carignan and Counoise complete the blend.

The grapes are hand-picked and gently handled in the winery, with about 15% whole bunches included in the fermentation to add structure and complexity. The wine is aged for approximately 8 months in large neutral French oak barrels, allowing the fruity character of the wine to fully express itself without excessive oak influence​​.

Did You Know?

The term "Junto", which means "together" in Spanish and Portuguese, reflects the idea that this wine is a harmonious collaboration of grape varieties, with Grenache as the hero, supported by Shiraz and Mataro to add flesh, spice, and tannin.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright ruby red with purple highlights.
• Aroma: Fresh red fruit aromas like raspberry and strawberry, accompanied by delicate herbal and floral notes.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is fresh and lively, with lovely tension and flavors of red fruits, fine herbs, and a touch of spice. The structure is light but serious, thanks to the inclusion of whole bunches that add subtle tannins and complexity.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Paella with Chorizo: The spicy and meaty flavors of the paella pair perfectly with the freshness and complexity of the Junto GSM.
• Herb-Grilled Lamb: The herbs and grilled lamb find a harmonious echo in the herbal and fruity notes of the wine.
• Provençal Ratatouille: The roasted vegetables and herbs of the ratatouille complement the red fruit and herbal aromas of the wine.
• Aged Manchego Cheese: The richness and texture of aged Manchego are balanced by the liveliness and structure of the Junto GSM.

History of Bondar Estate

Bondar Wines was established in 2013 when Andre Bondar and Selina Kelly acquired the Rayner Vineyard in McLaren Vale. Their vision was to create wines that combine the rich, robust fruit of McLaren Vale with the finesse and elegance they admired in cool-climate wines from regions like the Northern Rhône and the Adelaide Hills. Andre, with a background in winemaking and a deep passion for viticulture, and Selina, who brought her experience in the wine industry, formed a perfect partnership dedicated to producing high-quality wines.

The Rayner Vineyard, with its old, dry-grown Grenache and Shiraz vines, provided the ideal foundation for their winemaking journey.

The estate's bush vines, some up to 70 years old, and the introduction of other varieties like Mourvèdre, Carignan, Touriga, Counoise, Cinsault, and Sagrantino, reflect their commitment to exploring the full potential of McLaren Vale's diverse terroir.

Region and Vineyards

McLaren Vale, situated in South Australia, is celebrated for its Mediterranean climate and diverse soils, making it one of Australia's premier wine regions. The Rayner Vineyard spans around 20 hectares, with about three-quarters planted to vine. The vineyard is strategically located on the border of the Blewitt Springs and Seaview sub-regions, each contributing unique characteristics to the wines.

Blewitt Springs is known for its deep sandy soils that help retain moisture, producing wines with elegant structure and fine tannins. In contrast, Seaview offers higher elevation and cooler temperatures, adding balance and complexity to the wines. The combination of these sub-regions allows Bondar to craft wines with remarkable depth, character, and finesse.

Wine Range

Bondar Wines produces a diverse range of wines that showcase the best of McLaren Vale's terroir. Their portfolio includes:

• Rayner Vineyard Shiraz: Known for its rich, robust flavors and elegant structure, this Shiraz is a true reflection of McLaren Vale's terroir.
• Violet Hour Shiraz: A refined and complex Shiraz that captures the unique qualities of the Rayner Vineyard.
• Junto GSM: An innovative blend of Grenache, Shiraz, and Mataro, offering a fresh and vibrant expression of these Mediterranean varieties.
• Rayner Vineyard Grenache: Celebrated for its purity and aromatic intensity, this Grenache showcases the old vines' depth and complexity.

Each wine in their range is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, emphasizing minimal intervention and sustainable practices to preserve the natural expression of the vineyard.

Did You Know?

The name "Bondar" is inspired by Andre Bondar's family heritage. It reflects the founders' dedication to their roots and their passion for creating wines that honor the traditions and terroir of McLaren Vale.