Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2007 Grenache Old Vines Romas Vineyard is quite light in the glass and has a gentle haze running through it. The fruit here is fully destemmed, and the wine feels chalky and super fresh. This has none of the charry density that some of the previous wines have had, and while it may be an outlier in that regard, it seems to very elegantly express what was in essence a hot dry year. I love this wine for its refreshing tannin detail and spice.
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Wine Spectator
Firm, slightly gritty in texture, giving way to pure, focused black currant, plum and spice flavors. Weaves in a touch of tar on the long, expressive finish.
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Wine Enthusiast
The rare Australian Grenache you might consider cellaring for more than a couple of years, the 2007 Romas features dark, plummy fruit accented with hints of coffee and chocolate. It’s full bodied and richly textured without being overly astringent, with a long finish. Drink 2012–2020.
Cellar Selection
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.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.