Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
I loved the 2015 Grenache le Chemin Vers l’Heresie from barrel, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint from bottle. The 2015 checks in as a blend of 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, 8% Touriga Nacional and the rest Petite Sirah, fermented with 44% whole clusters (all from the Grenache and Mourvèdre) and aged close to two years in mostly used barrel. It sports a ruby/purple-tinged color to go with gorgeous notes of black cherries, framboise, black olives, fennel seed, and peppery herbs. Deep, concentrated, yet also voluptuous and seamless, it’s another tour de force from this estate which consistently produces one of the greatest Grenaches in the world. Drink it anytime over the coming 15+ years.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2015 Grenache Le Chemin Vers L'Heresie is a blend of 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, 8% Touriga Nacional and 4% Petite Sirah, coming 35% from The Third Twin (Estate) Vineyard, 9% from Bien Nacido Vineyard, 28% from the Cumulus (Estate) Vineyard, 26% from the Eleven Confessions (Estate) Vineyard and 2% from Molly Aida (Estate) Vineyard. It was produced using 44% whole cluster and aged for around 22 months in French oak, 11% new (bottled August 21, 2017). It has a deep garnet-purple color and fragrant nose of violets, kirsch, blueberry compote and dark chocolate with hints of lavender, smoky bacon, Provence herbs and menthol. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and bold, the wines bursts with energy, superbly framed by velvety tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with lingering sautéed herbs and black pepper notions.
Rating: 98+ -
Wine Spectator
The 2015 Grenache Le Chemin vers l'Hérésie is a total turn-on. Rich, ripe and voluptuous, but with considerable aromatic nuance from the 44% whole clusters, the 2015 has it all. Time in the glass brings out floral and red-toned Grenache varietal notes, and the flavors are remarkably vivid and intense today. Even so, readers will have to cellar this for at least a few years. All the elements are in place for the 2015 to develop into a spectacular wine. I can't wait to see how it ages. The 2015 is 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, 8% Touriga Nacional and 4% Petite Sirah, done with 44% whole clusters (for the Grenache and Mourvèdre). Range: 96-98
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!