The Language of Yes, Grenache En Passerillage, Santa Barbara County, California, USA 2020

A fantastic take on Grenache done ‘en passerillage’ or with the inclusion of bunches that were dried in the shade of the vine rows and ample whole stem inclusion. These wines come from a cool site in Santa Barbara County, Rancho Réal. The result is another unique masterstroke from America's original Rhone Ranger. Aromatics of strawberry fruit leather, dried violets and cardamom pods give way to subtle hints of leather and smoke. The palate is savoury to its core. Notes of dried herbs and bay leaf dance alongside ample fruit, and dried cherry, raspberry, and grilled peach skin inject depth of fruit into a mineral savoury finish that goes on for some time.