2015 C.G. Di Arie Grenache
Gallery Collection
Sierra Foothills, CA
Winemaker’s Notes:
Grenache originated in the Rioja and Catalonia wine regions of
Spain and from there it was imported into southern France after the Phyloxera
devastated most of the grapevines in the Rhone region. The Grenache grapevine was brought to light
in the world stage mainly due to its being more resistant to Phyloxera. Traditionally,
this grape variety has been mainly used for blending and has not had great
success as a standalone variety since it lacks in color, tannins and a balanced
acidity.
The grapes for
this wine came from our Grenache vineyard planted in 2007 clones VNS 3 and VNS
5 some grafted from Syrah and Tempranillo. We followed our normal winemaking
protocols and used our Dual Compartment Submerged Cap Fermentation Tank and
aged the wine in predominantly French oak barrels. I blended this Grenache with Syrah like they
would in Southern Rhone in wines of distinction that come from Chateauneuf du
Pape or Gigondas. The Syrah contributed
color, flavor and structure for better balance.
This wine has a light color and mouthfeel and ideal for
drinking at cooler temperatures during the summer. It has a very distinctive flavor and aroma of
berry fruits, combined with earthy and herbaceous notes which remind me of the
popular Argentinean Mate tea, without the bitterness and grassiness associated
with it.
Varietal Content:
76% Grenache, Estate Grown
24% Syrah, Estate Grown
Bottling Date: 2/9/2017
Cases Produced: 166
pH: 3.6
Alcohol Content: 14.3%
Residual Sugars: Less than 0.1%
