Herman Story Casual Encounters 2013
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Blend: 45% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 18% Mourvedre, 2% Tannat.
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Wine Enthusiast
Hearty black plums, smoked beef and violets meet with rust, crushed rocks and a little dried sage on the nose of Russell From's blend of 45% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 18% Mourvèdre and 2% Tannat. Intense and dark blueberry-blackberry fruit shows on the palate along with elegant herbs and spices, from bay leaf and thyme to powerful black pepper. This wine is an attention-grabber for sure.
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Proprietor and winemaker Russell P. From began Herman Story Wines in 2001 with 7 barrels stashed in his employer’s cellar. What started as a modest homage to his rancher grandfather has become a beacon to those seeking opulent, structured Syrah and Grenache. To maintain balance while giving flavor full stage, Russell works with 30 top-tier vineyards in over 7 distinct growing regions between Santa Barbara and Paso Robles. From's dedication has held the attention of discriminating consumers and reviewers alike, earning him a coveted position in Wine Spectator's Top 100 List in 2014 for his On the Road Grenache and and average 90+ score on CellarTracker across all wines and vintages.
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!