New Vintage
Based out of the renowned Rayner vineyard in McLaren Vale, Bondar wines has made a big impression on the Australian wine scene. Established by husband and wife duo, Andre Bondar and Selina Kelly in 2012, their commitment to crafting exceptional wines has been widely lauded, including being named James Halliday's 'Best New Winery' back in 2017.
Another brilliant rendition of this classic blend, the 2022 Bondar Junto is a vibrant, fresh red wine with plenty of personality and a wonderful level of drinkability. Junto is Spanish for ‘together’, and in this case means a union of old friends; with the 2022 vintage a blend of Grenache (62%), Shiraz (21%), Mataro (15%) and Carignan (2%).
All the fruit was wild-fermented with approximately 20% whole-bunches, then raised in old oak for eight months. The blend is put together with the idea that Grenache is the hero, with Shiraz supporting with flesh and the Mataro with spice, structure and tannin. The Carignan adds further finesse and complexity to the palate.
"A great makeup of majority grenache (62%) with a smattering of shiraz, mataro and cinsault, reminiscent of a classic southern Rhône blend, albeit, with a lighter touch. As good, too. Effusive blue- and red-fruit allusions teem along rails of gentle tannins, a burr of whole-bunch spice as seasoning. A sweep of maritime salinity at the finish. Such a complete and joyous wine, light of feel. It would be churlish not to drink a great deal of it. 91 Points. 14% alc. Drink: 2023 - 2025. Screwcap"- Ned Goodwin, winecompanion.com.au.
