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The Australian
5 hours ago
- Business
- The Australian
The Australian Wine Club: great deal on Grenache
It must be the greatest make-over in Australian wine. From after-thought to august; from whatever to wow! We're talking about grenache, the Cinderella of Australian grapes, now dancing on the wine lists of great restaurants around the world. Australia is home to the oldest grenache vines on the planet – the Barossa's Cirillo family trace their bush vines back to 1850 – but these botanical treasures weren't recognised as such until a new generation of winemakers started experimenting 10 to 15 years ago. One of those pioneers, Thistledown's Giles Cooke, is the winemaker behind one of the stars of The Australian Wine Club's celebration of grenache this week, with his highly rated 2024 Thorny Devil a flagwaver for a new contemporary style. In our dozen deal, Penny's Hill 95-point The Experiment Grenache 2021 joins Bleasdale's nicely pitched Langhorne Creek Grenache 2023 and a classic Barossa grenache blend from artisan producer, Schwarz Wine Co. Grenache was a vital component in the fortified wines that drove Australia's wine industry in the early 1900s but was left in the shadow of shiraz when table wines came to the fore over the past 50 years. With shiraz taking priority, grenache's fate was to be left to hang on vines for too long, over-ripening the berries and stripping away natural acid, resulting in dull wines with higher-than-desirable alcohol levels. As a result, straight grenache wines were seen as offering little more than a 'cheap and cheerful' drinking option – far from the exalted wines made in France's Chateauneuf du Pape and Spain's Priorat region. Then, around 2010, something happened: a new breed of winemakers like Cooke, with vintages under their belt in European grenache strongholds, recognised Australia's unique old-vine wealth and devoted themselves to the pursuit of grenache greatness. It also helped that long-neglected grenache growers were happy to sell their grapes at low prices, enabling young winemakers to innovate. 'From the get go, it was really about trying to do something to keep these old vineyards in the ground,'' says Paddy Gilhooly, Thistledown's co-proprietor. 'A lot of growers were having trouble selling their grapes. We thought grenache is such a rich part of Australia's viticultural history, it deserved better.' Thistledown winemaker Giles Cooke, left, during harvest in McLaren Vale. Rather than leaving the grapes on vines until late in the season, winemakers like Cooke focused on picking the fruit at a more optimum time when the grapes were showing a balance between sweetness, acidity and tannin. 'We pick on the way up rather than on the way down,' says Cooke, a Master of Wine. The Thistledown crew have also found that vines grown in sandy soils tend to produce wines with particularly lifted aromatics. The ancient sands of Blewitt Springs, in the northern reaches of McLaren Vale, have become highly regarded by those chasing this delicate style of complex Australian grenache. Think of fresh aromas of raspberries, red currant and strawberries, with a hint of pomegranate and orange rind, perhaps, and spicy, savoury characters adding layers of flavour. 'Grenache is being seen as a gateway wine for lovers of pinot noir – people who like lighter, fresher wines that also go well with food,'' says Gilhooly, who has been on the Thistledown train since 2014. 'Like pinot, you can really see the terroir in grenache – the different characters that come from different sites. You see that in good Burgundy and Barolo (made from nebbiolo in Italy's north).' Fourteen years after their first vintage in 2011, Thistledown can show off a portfolio of extremely limited single vineyard offerings from old McLaren and Barossa sites (wines like Sands of Times, This Charming Man, Fool on the Hill and She's Electric) as well as high quality, multi-vineyard grenache like Thorny Devil and the entry level Gorgeous Grenache range. With awards like the 2025 Halliday Wine Companion's Grenache of the Year, and 'by the glass' listings at Michelin-starred and top-hatted restaurants from Barcelona and London to New York, Hong Kong and Singapore, there's no question Thistledown and Australian grenache has arrived on the world stage. 'There's a lot of buzz about grenache and there's much more consumer awareness now but there's still a need for education,'' Gilhooly says. The best way to be educated, of course, is to try these wines yourself. Thistledown Thorny Devil McLaren Vale Grenache 2024 From dry grown vines at least 50 years old. Pretty aromatics of raspberries, red cherries, redcurrants and rose flowers, with hints of clove, sarsaparilla, a smudge of garden herbs and pepper spice. Pristine fruit flows through layers of flavours, with fresh acid and mellow tannins on the way to a lingering finish. Over delivers. 93 points, Halliday Wine Companion. 14.5% alc; RRP $36. SPECIALS $34.50 a bottle in any dozen; $23.99 a bottle in grenache dozen Penny's Hill The Experiment McLaren Vale Grenache 2021 Decadent aromas of dark cherries, plums, cedar, spice and vanilla and nutmeg. Intense ripe black cherries wash through the palate, with liquorice and anise hints. Creamy texture. Rich, generous and gorgeous. 95 points, Wine Orbit. 14.5% alc; RRP $45. SPECIALS $42.99 a bottle in any dozen; $23.99 a bottle in grenache dozen Bleasdale Langhorne Creek Grenache 2023 Cherry, strawberry and raspberry scents lift from the glass, with milk chocolate and a touch of aniseed and minty herbs. Juicy fruit (red berry and sour cherry), fine-grained tannins and crunchy acidity drive to a lovely fresh finish. 94 points, Halliday Wine Companion. 13.5% alc; RRP $30. SPECIALS $27.99 a bottle in any dozen; $23.99 a bottle in grenache dozen Schwarz The Grower Barossa Valley GSM 2022 Classical Rhone-style blend. Scents of strawberry, raspberry, plum and mushroom lead to a beautifully composed palate, with rich fruit flavours joined by savoury nuances of cured meats, spice and earthy undertones. 92 points, Halliday Wine Companion. 14% alc; RRP $32 a bottle. SPECIALS $29.99 a bottle in any dozen; $23.99 a bottle in grenache dozen GRENACHE DOZEN Three bottles of each wine above for $23.99 a bottle. SAVE $141. Order online or phone 1300 765 359 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm AEST and quote 'ACCJ'. Deals are available only while stocks last. The Australian Wine Club is a commercial partnership with Laithwaites Wine.
Forbes
18-06-2025
- Sport
- Forbes
2025 Ohio Derby Odds: Can Clever Again Get Back On Track?
As the summer racing season heats up, all eyes turn to Thistledown for the 2025 edition of the Ohio Derby. Traditionally held in late June, this Grade 3 event has long served as a second-chance spotlight for three-year-olds who may have missed or underperformed in the Triple Crown trail. This year's field is full of talent and redemption arcs, and I've zeroed in on one horse I believe could steal the show. But first, take a look at the race contenders. Trainer: Paul McEntee Jockey: Marshall Mendez Sire: Upstart Odds: 30/1 Trainer: Ethan West Jockey: Jareth Loveberry Sire: Preservationist Odds: 7/2 Trainer: Kim Puhl Jockey: Luis Gonzalez Sire: Laoban Odds: 10/1 Trainer: Rick Dutrow, Jr. Jockey: John Velazquez Sire: Cloud Computing Odds: 3/1 Trainer: Jason DaCosta Jockey: Rocco Bowen Sire: Gun Runner Odds: 20/1 Trainer: Steve Asmussen Jockey: Jose Ortiz Sire: American Pharoah Odds: 9/5 Trainer: Nestor Rivera Jockey: Israel Rodriguez Sire: Cajun Breeze Odds: 30/1 Trainer: Peter Miller Jockey: Mike Smith Sire: Vino Rosso Odds: 12/1 Trainer: Brittany Vanden Berg Jockey: Chris Emigh Sire: Tapiture Odds: 20/1 Trainer: Jeremiah Englehart Jockey: Joseph Ramos Sire: Complexity Odds: 6/1 The Ohio Derby offers a $500,000 purse and draws a field of improving sophomores, many coming off solid performances in spring prep races or looking to rebound from tough beats. With 1 1/8 miles on dirt, the race typically favors tactical speed, though closers have found success with well-timed rides. This year's field includes a mix of proven stakes runners and up-and-comers. Horses like Who Dey and Copper Tax have gained attention with steady form, while others are taking a big class leap. The diversity in racing styles sets up an intriguing pace scenario—one that I believe will favor a horse with versatility and grit. I'm doing it. I'm making Clever Again my top pick, despite being wary after the colt's recent defeat in the Preakness Stakes (G1). Trained by Steve Asmussen and ridden by Jose Ortiz, Clever Again brings a combination of early speed and the ability to sit just off the pace—an ideal style for the Thistledown surface. He has been facing tougher competition all season and may finally land in a spot where his class edge shines. What makes Clever Again particularly appealing is the tactical advantage. If the pace heats up early, he has the ability to rate and strike. If things get loose on the front end, he's fast enough to go gate-to-wire. That kind of dual-threat profile is rare in a field where most horses are committed to either front-running or deep-closing styles. While I do like Clever Again, he's not a lock by any means. Who Dey, who ran impressively earlier this spring, continues to improve and could be a serious threat if the pace falls apart. Meanwhile, Copper Tax, though a bit inconsistent, has the back class and the figures to make some noise if he can find racing room. I also think Kentucky Derby (G1) runner Chunk of Gold could be a horse who could take advantage of a potential pace meltdown. Longshots like Just Steel and Deposition may lack big wins, but Aaron advises not to overlook them in exotics. These types often hit the board in races like this, especially if the front-runners tire late. For bettors, the Ohio Derby is one of the more playable summer stakes races before Saratoga and Del Mar begin, with potential value throughout the field. Bet Clever Again to win, and consider boxing him in exactas with a few price horses like Who Dey or Deposition. For those playing trifectas or superfectas, using deep closers underneath could catch a nice payday. Whether you're a seasoned handicapper or a casual fan looking for action, the 2025 Ohio Derby promises a competitive field and betting opportunities galore. You can get more picks and analysis from me over at Good luck!
Arabian Post
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arabian Post
Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong And LANDMARK Unveil a New Dining Venture in Partnership with Award-Winning French Chef Daniel Boulud
John Dickinson Plantation /Submitted Image DOVER, DE — The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs has unveiled a busy schedule of events for June, designed to engage residents and visitors with the state's rich history and unique traditions. From historic demonstrations to lively community celebrations, opportunities abound at museums and landmarks across Delaware. John Dickinson Plantation Fiber arts enthusiasts will enjoy the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild Demonstrations on June 14 from 1 PM to 3 PM. Visitors can observe spinning, weaving, knitting, and other historical handcrafts while touring the plantation. New Castle Court House Museum The New Castle Court House Museum offers weekly Walking Tours of the Green every Friday morning in June, from 10 AM to 11 AM. Participants can immerse themselves in the history of the Green and its surrounding architecture. One of the month's most anticipated events, Separation Day , will take place on June 7. The day-long celebration begins with a Colonial-themed parade and transitions to an array of activities, including family rides, an artisan and vintage market, live music, a beer garden, and local food stalls. The festivities culminate with fireworks over the Delaware River. Dog lovers can join the fun on June 28 for Dog Days of Summer . Attendees, alongside their canine companions, will gather on the Green to watch a screening of the film 1776 from 8 PM to 10:30 PM while exploring Revolutionary War history. Old State House Museum Two standout events are scheduled at the Old State House. On June 14, esteemed panelists will participate in Dover Comic Con 2025 from 11 AM to 4 PM, adding a modern cultural twist to the museum's activities. READ: Test Your Wits and Make a Difference at Chester County Trivia Night Later in the month, on June 21, historian Tamara R. Burks will discuss the significance of the Rosedale Beach Hotel and Resort during segregation in her talk, Remembering Rosedale Beach . This educational event is scheduled from 1 PM to 2 PM and celebrates a key landmark in Delaware's history. Zwaanendael Museum The Zwaanendael Museum's June calendar features special tours, exhibits, and seasonal celebrations. The Walk to the DeBraak tours, exploring artifacts and the preserved hull of the 18th-century HMS DeBraak, kick off on June 5, with additional dates on June 14 and June 19. International Horseshoe Crab Day will be marked on June 20 with a pop-up exhibit and activities celebrating this iconic marine creature from 11 AM to 3 PM. Finally, on June 21, guests can celebrate the changing season during Summer Solstice at the Zwaanendael Museum . From 2 PM to 3 PM, visitors can enjoy a 15-minute lecture on seasonal changes and natural traditions, paired with a fun firefly craft activity. Discover Delaware's History With its diverse lineup of activities, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs offers a unique opportunity to engage with Delaware's dynamic past and traditions. Whether through hands-on crafts, historical insights, or community celebrations, June in Delaware promises to be both educational and entertaining for all ages. For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.
CBC
09-04-2025
- Health
- CBC
Halifax dentists hand out adaptive products for kids with disabilities
Items like 3-sided toothbrushes and flavourless toothpaste are effective but difficult to find The IWK Health Centre's dentistry department is trying to teach parents of kids with disabilities different approaches to caring for their teeth, but the team says families face hurdles simply accessing the most effective products on the market. Dr. Tracy Doyle said parents and dentists constantly ask her for advice on how to adapt dental care at home. She said patients can face a slew of challenges. Some have sensory issues, struggling with the texture and taste of toothpaste. "I've even had parents tell me that children don't like feeling the bristles on their gums," Doyle said. Other patients, she said, have physical disabilities that mean they rely entirely on their caregivers to look after their teeth. That's when things like flossing can be a struggle. The constant questions inspired Doyle to team up with Dr. Jenna McNutt, a dentist who was a student at Dalhousie University in Halifax when they started the project. They spent three years surveying dental care professionals across the country, asking for adaptive product recommendations and testing them out. They landed on a number of items, including a three-sided toothbrush that covers a tooth. "If you're time-limited in the amount of time that you have to help your child brush … this toothbrush allows more bang for your buck when it comes to cleaning surfaces for your teeth," Doyle said. The dentists also found a toothpaste that has no taste and doesn't foam up. For flossing, they found a product that looks like nunchucks that families find easier to handle. Mackenzie Cranidge, who is 12, tested out some of the products for the team. She has Down syndrome, and her mom, Jenna Shields, said her daughter is now eager to brush her teeth because she can be independent. "I have noticed that her teeth look a whole lot cleaner and she's taking extra time to make sure she's doing every movement correctly where she just has to go back and forth instead of side to side," said Shields. This is what Doyle wants to see — more kids finding fun in their dental care. But she's worried about all the barriers they face. The products they've found are expensive and aren't sold in stores. Doyle had to order the toothpaste from the United Kingdom. The team received funding from the IWK and the Thistledown charitable foundation to buy 200 of each of the products. They'll be handed out to patients and Autism Nova Scotia. Doyle said they'll now switch focus to getting the word out about the effectiveness of the products. She plans to do outreach with families and dentists across the country. Her hope is that one day, they'll be easy to get, and children with disabilities will have one less hurdle in accessing their health care. "That would be incredible if those were more easily accessible to our patients."
