Grenache Rosé

The 2017 growing season brought a welcome return to above normal rainfall, with roughly 42 inches falling at our Gean Ranch in the Adelaida district of Paso Robles. Budbreak arrived on April 5th, which is normal for this ranch. We saw mild spring weather and gradual vine growth prior to bloom in late May, resulting in nice fruit-set and an above 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 quite early to capture those fresh fruit notes and the bright acidity in the wine. Our approach to winemaking in 2017 borrows from the latest trends in the south of France for Rosé. Employing a 21-day aging of the pulpy juice at a low temperature, prior to yeast inoculation, delivers a wine with elevated notes of fresh guava and passionfruit. The result is a truly refreshing style, which pairs well with cold meats and fresh seafood.