> 2008 Grenache

2008 Grenache

This Estate Grenache was cropped from an estimated 10-12 tons per acre to 4 tons per acre to improve the intensity of the flavor and the color. They were hand picked and fermented in our winery. Grenache is often blended with another grape because the tannins in Grenache are naturally very low, consequently, or so the story goes, Grenache does not age well. We bottled 100 cases of 100% Grenache in 2004 and have been very happy with how it stood up to time. We love the flavors of Grenache, by itself. The delicate personality of Grenache is easily overpowered by blending wines. Consequently we went back to an unblended Grenache. Think of it as a hearty Pinot, with lots of strawberry notes.

Variety: 100% Grenache clone 362

Rootstock: 110R

Soil type: San Ysidro; Zaca

TA: .46g/100ml

Barrel Treatment: 75% Neutral 25% New French ½ medium, grain ½ tight grain

Harvested: 2008 Sept 15th @25.2 brix

Bottled: Jan 12th, 2010 - 645 cases

Winemaker: Lood Kotzé

Alcohol:	15.0%
Appellation:	Paso Robles
Release Date:	February 02, 2010
Special Designation:	Cass Vineyard
Vineyard Notes:	The Rhone varieties in our Estate Vineyard are 100% ENTAV certified clones, planted in 2001. In total, there are 12 varieties planted on 160 acres of alluvial soils alongside the Huer Huero River. We are located southeast of Paso Robles in an area now being called the "Templeton Gap." The vineyard is at 900 feet elevation on a relatively flat terrain, surrounded by hills up to 1400 feet in elevation. This valley is known as a cold spot in the area, which is helpful in stretching out the ripening time for the fruit during harvest. The soils have good water holding capacity, which is also a big help during some of the long hot days we experience east of Paso Robles.
Year:	2008