I love trying new varietals. Did you know there are between 5000 to 10,000 vitis vinifera grapes throughout the world and only a handful are commercially produced.
Grenache blanc is a variety of white wine grape that is related to the red grape Grenache. It is mostly found in Rhône wine blends and in northeast Spain. Its wines are characterized by high alcohol and low acidity, with citrus and or herbaceous notes. Its vigor (how the vine grows) can lead to overproduction and flabbiness. However, if yields are controlled, it can contribute flavor and length to blends, particularly with Roussanne. Since the 1980’s, it has been the fifth most widely planted white wine grape in France after Ugni blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon and Sauvignon blanc.
Grenache blanc is thought to have originated as a mutation of the red version of Grenache in Spain. It then spread across the Pyrenees (a mountain range in the south-western part of Europe and forms a natural border between France and Spain) to France, finding a second home in the Rhône (southern part of France).
Sight
Thin color depth with a gold hue.
Smell
Aromatic, fruity with citrus fruit.
Taste
Dry, medium to light-bodied with lively acidity. Crisp, slightly tart mid-palate flavors with a medium length finish.
abv: 14.1%
How much: $26.99
Region/Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley, California
Fruit Source: Camp 4 Vineyard.
I rated the 2013 Shane Grenache Blanc three glasses.
We had hoped to meet up with Shane during our last trip to Sonoma. He had some family issues. No big issue, family is first.
Life is too short to drink crappy wine. Expand your palate and keep trying.
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