Amulet Estate Melee Grenache 2016
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The 2016 MELÉE Grenache has perfumed aromatics of rose petal and white pepper. The texture is soft and seamless in the mouth with flavors of raspberry, strawberry and a touch of clove. It pairs well with grilled or stewed meats, especially game.
A fun pairing is a less spicy Asian dish.
Blend: 95% Grenache and 5% Syrah.
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The word "amulet" comes from the Latin word amuletum, which means "an object that provides good fortune" or a good luck charm.
More than a talisman, the true mark of the Amulet Estate portfolio is a nod to the pioneering spirit of early Napa Valley viticulture and a deep respect for the land. Their portfolio extends far beyond the estate and into many other distinctive and historic vineyards. Blessed with close proximity to America’s most celebrated vintners and growers, they strive to embrace the values inherent in their community. Since acquiring the estate and vineyards in 2016, it has been their goal to create world class wines that reflect the profound expressions of The Napa Valley; and build a boutique winery "a gathering place" that reflects both their family values and the best of Napa Valley.
Their approach to winemaking and hospitality encourage continued growth and graceful evolution.
Their attention to detail in the vineyard coupled with a gentle winemaking philosophy allow them to produce wines with elevated purity that reflect the place the grapes were grown. They invite their guests to enter the gates and immerse themselves in what they do everyday and taste the fruits of their labor. Keeping their minds and eyes on what’s to come, appreciating the past as a compass to guide them forward, their vision for Amulet Estate and their portfolio is an outcome of merging classic and familiarity in progressive movement.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!