2018 Sonoma Valley "Rossi Ranch" Grenache
88% Grenache
12% Mourvèdre
Yields in Grenache can be hit or miss. In some years, the stems weigh more than the berries. Seriously. But in this practically perfect growing season, our Rossi Ranch Grenache set a healthy crop of approximately 2.5 tons to the acre. Picked on October 19th, we included a bit of Mourvèdre (12% to be exact) to provide more mid-palate presence. Mourvèdre plays so nicely with Grenache, enhancing without detracting. Twenty-three percent whole cluster and an uninoculated fermentation. Aged in all neutral oak for 16 months and bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium to medium-dark translucent ruby. An explosive nose of strawberries, potpourri, and Chinese five-spice. Quel nez! On the palate, pure velvet with flavors of kirsch, star anise, cinnamon, and a slight note of orange peel. Just as perfumed and exotic as the 2017 but with more depth and concentration. Quite simply, downright delicious. Optimum enjoyment should be between 2022 and 2030. (MRO - 07/10/20)