Herman Story On The Road Grenache 2020
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Jeb
Dunnuck -
Robert
Parker
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Winemaker Notes
These hard-boiled bootleggers know how to make a scene. An hour before, you were at the local juice joint, downing black cherry and black tea elixirs with a couple of licorice-suited cool cats. Then you had to scram, and fast. Now, you’re hightailing a Model T across the frozen Detroit River with the coppers in hot pursuit and this wine in tow. Pop a bottle for good fortune. Candied-blackberry satin, mossy mineral mother of pearl, spiced pie crust pistols, maraschino liqueur, the wind in your face and Canada’s shrouded shores, just out of sight.
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Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Based on 100% Grenache from a handful of great sites in the Central Coast (Slide Hill, Full Draw, Bien Nacido, and Rolph vineyards), the 2020 On the Road spent a whopping 30 months in 70% new French oak. It has gorgeous black cherry, kirsch, melted licorice, and roasted garrigue-like aromatics that carry to a full-bodied, concentrated, yet broad and expansive red with ripe tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2020 On The Road Grenache is somewhat savory and rustic. Matured in 70% new French oak for 30 months, it's scented of red and black currants with accents of grilled meats, underbrush and pencil shavings. The full-bodied palate has savory, earthy flavors, gently chewy tannins and rounded acidity, finishing with a touch of bitterness and overt new oak spice.
Other Vintages
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Jeb
Dunnuck -
Wine
Enthusiast
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Jeb
Dunnuck
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Jeb
Dunnuck -
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Spectator -
Wine
Enthusiast
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Robert
Parker
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Robert
Parker -
Wine
Spectator
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Wine
Spectator
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.
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.
With a dry and mild climate cooled significantly by moist ocean fog and breezes, Santa Barbara County is a grape-grower’s dream. Part of the larger Central Coast appellation, Santa Barbara is home to Santa Maria Valley and Santa Ynez Valley. The conditions here provide an opportunity for nearly effortless production of high-quality cool-climate Central Coast wines. This is also the site of the 2004 film Sideways, which caused Pinot Noir’s popularity to skyrocket and brought new acclaim to the region.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the stars of Santa Barbara, producing wines marked by racy acidity. Crisp Sauvignon Blanc and savory Syrah are also important. The region is home to many young and enthusiastic winemakers eager to experiment with less common varieties including Chenin Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Trousseau Gris, Gamay and Cabernet Franc, making it an exciting area to watch.