This is a very spicy, earthy expression of Grenache. It’s got plenty of alcohol, but so do almost all of the California versions of this variety. It carries its 16.2% with finesse, showing nice pepper, damp earth, mushroom and black cherry, with some fig and jammy blackberry underneath. A bit of exotic spice makes itself known in the long finish. This is a truly unique wine — and it’s good, too.
Sans Liege Wines, Santa Barbara County (California) Grenache 2011
By Rich Cook