Region and Vineyards
Blewitt Springs, in the elevated southeastern reaches of McLaren Vale, has become one of Australia's most admired sources of fine Grenache, especially from old vines rooted in deep Maslin sands. MMAD's vineyard sits in this prized pocket, exposed to fresh south-westerly breezes from the Gulf St Vincent. The site was first planted in 1939, and the Grenache for this wine comes from those historic bush vines, making vine age a central part of the wine's identity as well as its concentration and nuance.
Beneath the sand lies a layer of ironstone pebbles, and this combination of sandy topsoil, mineral subsoil, elevation, and cooling airflow is key to the wine's style. MMAD itself describes the result as a source of both perfume and structure, which is exactly what Blewitt Springs is celebrated for in top-flight Grenache. The vineyard is also part of Australia's viticultural heritage, now stewarded by a team intent on expressing site rather than sheer weight.
Winemaking
This wine is made from 100% Grenache and reflects a restrained, texture-focused approach in the cellar. The fruit was hand-picked from old vines planted in 1939, with about 15% whole bunches included in the ferment. Fermentation took place in both wood and stainless steel, a combination that allows for aromatic lift, controlled extraction, and a measured build-up of structure without pushing the wine into heaviness.
After fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic conversion and was matured in concrete and large old French oak barrels. That ageing regime is especially well judged for Grenache from sandy soils, preserving purity of fruit while polishing texture and supporting the wine's long, savoury line. MMAD's own note highlights rich red cherry and raspberry fruit, some opulence at the front of the palate, and then grainy, firm tannins that carry the finish. With 14.0% alcohol and the structure to evolve over about 15 years, this is clearly built for more than early charm.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Bright ruby to crimson, clear and vibrant, with a youthful luminosity that suggests freshness rather than extraction-heavy density.
- Aroma: Rich red cherry, raspberry, plum, sultry floral notes, lilac, dried lavender, rosemary, fennel seed, anise, pepper, and subtle ferrous, iodine, and umami nuances that add complexity.
- Palate: Medium-bodied yet intense, with red berry and raspberry coulis flavours, fine-grained but firm tannins, fresh acidity, savoury spice, and a notably long, saline, structured finish.
Did you know?
MMAD takes its name from the first initials of its four owners: Martin Shaw, Michael Hill Smith, Adam Wadewitz, and David LeMire. The project began after they acquired the vineyard in early 2021, drawn by the rarity of old vines in Blewitt Springs and by the special affinity between this sandy, breezy site and Grenache. That makes MMAD a very modern label rooted in a very old vineyard.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Duck pancakes: The wine's aromatic spice, supple fruit, and savoury length work beautifully with the sweet-savoury profile of duck and hoisin.
- Herb-crusted lamb cutlets: Grenache's red fruit and dried herb notes echo the lamb's richness while the tannins keep the pairing energetic and precise.
- Roast pork with fennel: The wine's fennel-seed and anise accents create a natural bridge, while its freshness keeps the dish from feeling heavy.
- Wild mushroom tart: Its umami, ferrous, and savoury spice notes make an especially convincing match with earthy mushroom flavours and buttery pastry.
