Grounded Cru is shaking things up from the usual wine route that they’re so well known for, with the introduction of a new fortified wine built on a 1976 vintage Grenache.
Only 140 bottles exist, making it one of the most exclusive launches the brand has ever done.
“While our estate Grenache, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon will always be our heartbeat, we’ve never been the kind of winery to stay in one lane,” Grounded Cru winemaker Matt Jackman said.
“Our community knows us for trying new things and creating small‑batch releases that you can only discover if you come see us in person.”
The team are celebrating the rare launch in style, with a full day of live music, food truck offerings and an exclusive ticketed tasting with a dessert pairing.
It was just last year that Grounded Cru introduced their very first fortifieds, which wasn’t a small feet for the cellar door which opened its doors in 2024. The new drops have quickly become a fan favourite among visitors and club members who frequent the venue.
“That spirit of curiosity is what shapes our ever‑evolving range, and it’s what makes being part of the Cru so much fun,” Matt said.
The Seriously Rare Tawny comes in 500ml batches, giving a “rich, luscious and intense,” flavour that been shaped by nearly “half a century of patience.”
Matt told us to expect dark chocolate flavours with a hint of orange rind that touches the nose, lifted by stewed red fruits. The barrel maturity of the tawny averages more than 30 years, delivering a strong fruit intensity with a long, warming finish.
“It’s the kind of wine that turns a long lunch or dinner into a celebration.”
Not only have they recently introduced Shiraz and Touriga fortified wines, Grounded Cru are working on their first batch of Grenache Gin, made locally with Reform Distilling.
“It’s bright, aromatic and completely different from our fortified lineup showing just how versatile Grenache can be when you let creativity lead the way.”
The Seriously Rare Tawny is only available for purchase at the Grounded Cru Cellar door, and won’t be offered by the glass or in the standard tasting.
“To give our community the chance to experience this remarkable new release, we’re hosting an intimate fortified tasting on May 31,” Matt said.
The fortified tasting will be held in two sessions and each will include a curated dessert pairing and a guided tasting of their full fortified range, yes that includes the Seriously Rare Tawny.
“Our winemaker will lead a guided tasting, sharing stories, answering questions, and offering a behind‑the‑scenes look at how these small‑batch creations came to life, we look forward to seeing you there!”
This is a ticketed event but Grounded Cru will also be hosting a food truck and live music on the day for the general public who want to visit, sit back and enjoy some tunes.
When: May 31st, 2pm and 3.30pm sessions
Where: 49 Ingoldby Road, McLaren Flat
Price: $45 Per Person
To book, click here.
