Winemaker Notes
The 2017 A Tribute to Grace Besson Vineyard Grenache exudes a flavor profile characterized by notes of Anise, Lapins Cherry and Palo Santo.
Professional Ratings
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Wine & Spirits
Angela Osborn gets just three tons of grenache from Besson Vineyard, planted in 1910. The wine’s old-vine expression is forthright: It’s there in the color, the dusty red of cinnamon powder in the sun, and in aromas that mingle cherry blossoms with tar; it’s also palpable in the ripe, velvety cherry flavors. The texture is a marvel, seamless and elegant, and the wine feels complete—a feeling that got only more profound after the bottle was open for three days.
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Wine Spectator
Expressive and distinctive, with raspberry and pomegranate flavors, accented by stony mineral and white pepper notes, building tension toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2025.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.
A rugged and topographically diverse cool-climate appellation with a rich history, the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA stretches from Half Moon Bay, just south of San Francisco, to the northern border of Monterey County. Elevations range from 800 feet to upwards of 3,000 and microclimates vary substantially depending on which side of the mountains the vineyards lie; cool ocean winds and fog play an important role here. This can be a challenging region in which to grow grapes, but it is well worth the effort. Santa Cruz Mountains wines are noted for balanced acidity levels, often showing great aging potential. Wine has been made here since the 1800s, most notably from the legendary Ridge Vineyards, whose Monte Bello vineyard garners international admiration.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are the stars of this region, while Merlot and Zinfandel also perform quite well. Organic and sustainable vineyard practices are becoming increasingly common.