“Wow” is the first impression and the amazement continues as the wine unfolds. Darker than most, this Grenache displays aromas of ripe dark fruits, spice, and hints of lavender, thyme and earthiness. Medium-bodied and loaded with lush, dark fruit, currants and spice flavors, it is plush and has soft tannins that bring it to a strong finish. Powerful, but not over-done with oak in the background, it should age well for 4 to 5 years, but it is lovely now. Amor Fati (Latin for “love of fate”) is produced at the Rabble Wine Co. in Paso Robles. It is part of the Tooth & Nail Wine Company owned by Rob Murray. The winemaker is Jeremy Leffert. Based on this wine, we’ll be hearing more about Tooth & Nail in the near future. The label relates to a poem by William Blake. Leaving that story for another time, this cool-climate Grenache is easily one of the top five I’ve ever tasted.
Amor Fati, Santa Maria Valley (Santa Barbara County, California) Grenache 2018
By Norm Roby