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Junto is Spanish for ‘together’, and in this case means a union of old friends: Grenache (83%), Mataro (9%), Shiraz (4%) and Counoise (4%). The Grenache is mostly from Bondar’s own Rayner Vineyard, from old vines (1970) and younger plantings (2017 bush vines, 2019 trellised), plus some fruit from a neighbouring site planted by the Rayner family in 1968. The Shiraz and Counoise are also Rayner fruit, while the Mataro comes from the Lacey vineyard in Willunga on the famed, rocky Kurrajong soils.
Each batch was matured separately in larger oak, ceramic amphora and an old 2800L foudre. Grenache is the hero, picked early to hold onto freshness. The Mataro adds dried herb, spice and grip, the Shiraz flesh and Rayner umami, and the late-picked Counoise a lightness.
After the record-early 2025, 2026 was a later, slower season. Cool nights in February and March kept freshness and acidity, and autumn rain pushed picking late, letting each block be harvested at optimum ripeness. The result is a medium-bodied, elegant Junto with dark-fruited purity. It’s dangerously easy to drink, with juicy dark fruits, dried herbs and a lingering umami note.