2018 Grenache Blanc

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 French or Spanish? Grenache Blanc is one of the most widely grown white grapes in France—an important Rhône cultivar. Yet, it originated in Spain, an albino clone of more traditional red Garnacha. We don't think it really matters: in any language, Grenache Blanc means luscious.

If GB was a person, she'd be a voluptuous blond, richly perfumed but with backbone, structure, and complexity. Likewise, the wine is redolent of stone fruit, tangerine, and a hint of licorice and wet stone. Flavors range to peach with a touch of green apple and herb, crisp but never edgy and just a little bit earthy.

VINTAGE NOTES

After a warm, dry February that encouraged the vineyard to early bud break, Lodi returned to winter conditions with adequate but not excessive rain. Warm summer temperatures were ideal for maturing fruit and a long, warm, dry fall encouraged development of rich color and flavor.

Appellation:	Lodi, vineyard certified sustainable
Blend:	100% Grenache Blanc, Rasteau clone
Alcohol:	12.6%
TA:	0.5 g/100 mL
Residual Sugar:	<0.8%
pH:	3.4
Malolactic Fermentation:	None
Barrel Aging:	Stainless steel fermented
Harvest Date:	September 8, 2018
Brix at Harvest:	22o
Bottling Date:	April 4, 2019
Release Date:	October 15, 2019
Cases Produced:	125

THE VINEYARD

Grower Markus Bokisch is recognized as “Mr. Iberia”—at least where cultivation of Spanish grapes in California is concerned. Home to Verdejo and Graciano vines as well as Garnacha Blanca, his Clay Station Vineyard is all Iberian, too. Lodi's soil and climate are regarded by many as closely related to those of Spain, making it an ideal location for cultivation.

FOOD PAIRINGS

Grenache Blanc's herbal and mineral notes make it a great partner to things green—an arugula salad with roasted stone fruit, goat cheese, and almonds, for instance. Roasted fennel and the anisette notes and richness of mussels steamed in Pernod and cream with a touch of red pepper make it a fascinating alternative to more mainstream white wines.