Grenache Rosé

The 2016 growing season represents the fifth year of drought in our region with preseason rainfall about 70% of normal. Budbreak arrived in the third week of March, which is 1 to 2 weeks earlier than average. Spring weather was on the warm side and resulted in healthy canopy growth prior to bloom in mid-May, where we saw good set and an average crop size. We can always count on the chilly 50 degree nights throughout the summer in Paso Robles, which contribute to the unique fresh fruit character of the Grenache-based wines from this region. We harvest early to preserve the bright acidity in the wine. Our approach to winemaking in 2016 borrows from the latest trends in Provence for rosé. Employing a 21-day aging of the raw juice at low temperature, prior to yeast inoculation, delivers a wine with elevated levels of thiol that ring true with notes of fresh grapefruit and passion fruit. A truly refreshing style which pairs well with fresh seafood.