The 2022 Sarah’s Vineyard Grenache comes from Sarah’s estate and is generally used exclusively in our Madonne Rhone blend. This is the first time since 2016 that we have released a Grenache, and we are really excited about it. We hand-harvested and destemmed the whole Grenache berries directly into the fermenter. We “cold soaked” until the onset of a robust, native fermentation before inoculating with commercial yeast. Punch downs of the cap were done by hand, three times a day. One hundred percent secondary malolactic fermentation was induced. Aged 18 months in neutral French oak barrels. All these careful techniques have the aim of maintaining the superb fruit and spice aromas and flavors.
The ’22 Grenache is big and soft, rich in color and flavor with an intense red and black fruit presence of strawberry, black plum, dark cherries, and red raspberries. It also shows hints of leather and baking spice. Pair this Grenache with a roasted rosemary chicken and fresh grilled garden vegetables.
Appellation: Santa Clara Valley
Vineyard: Sarah's Estate
Grower: Tim Slater
