From an excellent, late ripening vintage, this Grenache was wild yeast fermented and blended with 19% Syrah. That generous dose of Syrah along with sur lies aging in French oak for 9 months likely elevated this one way above the typical youthful, fruit-filled Grenache. Actually, it reminded me of fine Gigondas. Dark in color, the wine opens with effusive fragrances of lush, ripe plum, fennel and dried herbs. It is big and round on the palate, but also remains bright and vibrant with good acid balance as it delivers flavors of ripe berries, spice and a light earthy/dusty touch. A hint of refined tannin in the aftertaste suggests it can be aged a few years. And it also was in top form 24 hours after being opened.
2-Hawk Vineyard & Winery, Rogue Valley (Oregon) Grenache 2018
By Norm Roby