My first impression was that this high-toned wine could be a pinot noir. Aromas of red fruit, earthy minerality and medium tannins. Winemaker and Grenache enthusiast Casey Graybehl is committed to Grenache, and doesn’t make Pinot Noir, but I guess that’s obvious.
This Grenache noir is vineyard-designated from Mounts Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma. The clonal type Alban was allegedly brought into the United States in a suitcase (“Suitcase Clone”) by John Alban from a property in Châteauneuf-du-Pape in southern Rhone.
We paired this Grenache with BBQ chicken, marinated in olive oil, salt and pepper, and herbs de Provence; and we arrived, in our minds, in the South of France, transported for the moment during dinner. Thanks Casey! Read Casey’s Wine Character interview here.