2011 Russian River Grenache Noir Magnum

Saralee's Vineyard

Dug out these 10 magnums from the Cellar!

While Grenache is thought of as a warm climate varietal, from the Southern Rhone of France, I am fond of the results that a cooler climate imparts. The Grenache is from the highly regarded Saralee’s Vineyard, one of the region’s oldest growers. Growing conditions are much less warm than the southern Rhone, but have an longer hang time, cool nights in the mid fifties and fog, allowing for flavor ripeness, at the same time maintaining high acidity, something Grenache isn’t always known for.The Grenache is light in color, which is natural to the varietal. The 2011 vintage was one of the most challenging in decades for Russian River, cold, reduced sunlight, late ripening and mildew and rain pressure made it a nail biting harvest, but the end result was worth the hard work and perseverance. This is the only Saralee’s Vineyard designate, Grenache, made, enjoy!