What a delight! Stop what you’re doing and order some of this immediately — you can read the rest while you’re on hold. "Cool climate Grenache" — three words that should be together more often if this is the result. This Alban selection clone produces singing cherry and strawberry fruit, with white pepper, citrus and spice all riding a silky wave into a long sunset, where crystalline acidity keeps things ringing. I’d say age it some, but it’s unlikely you’ll be able to keep from opening the rest once you crack the first one. A small handful of producers have embraced this style, and this is the best example I’ve tasted yet. Bravo!
Qupé, Edna Valley (California) Grenache 2013
By Rich Cook