GRENACHE

ALDER RIDGE VINEYARD

DESCRIPTION   Grenache is an elusive beast, at its finest in moderately warm climates, and when protected from intense direct sun. Of the two blocks we source from, we use only Block 30B at Alder Ridge Vineyard in this bottling. Set on a bench 200 ft. above the mighty Columbia River, this block of Grenache is planted in sand laden soils and ensconced in an amphitheater of exposed Basalt bluffs.  The radiant heat in this area is incredible, though it is tempered by the river itself.  The amount of water moved through the Columbia River Gorge is incomprehensible and all that water acts to moderate the surrounding air temperature.  This, in tandem with steady air flow through the gorge, works to protect the vines from heat and cold.  

Our 2018 vintage is chalked full of power. It was a tremendous growing season, yielding impressive weight and layered flavor. The wine has an elegant freshness about it, with hints of currant, boysenberry, macerated strawberry and cola. It is yet young, and should be decanted for maximum enjoyment.