It is cold and rainy outside so of course my mind is wondering off to warmer climates. There are many grapes suited for warm climates but one of my all time favorites is Grenache. It just so happens that John and myself have been working on getting the blend down for our 2009 Grenache. I can't spoil the fun by telling you all what it will be, but it is looking good. Oh the anticipation of the wine world!

As some of you know, Grenache is one of the most widely planted red grape varieties in the world. It does ripen late, so it needs hot, dry conditions. Our little ridgeline up here in Pleasant Valley proves to be a perfect place for the spicy, berry-flavored grape. One would mostly find it in blends, since it tends to lack color. Syrah is a very common blending companion for Grenache. Grenache is the dominant variety in most Chateauneuf-du-Pape where there has to be a minimum of 30% but is typically over 80% of the famous blends. We tend to use around 40% of Grenache in our Chateauneuf-du-Pape style Fluer Du Montagne.

Grenache is a great wine for a warm day, for it brings out the wanderlust in a person with its spicy, dusty fruit basket up-set character. Just now I am dreaming of beaches and craggy windswept hillsides as I look out and see huge snowflakes streaming down. Hmmm, the thought of Grenache and what it brings to mind is warming my soul. I guess that makes it good for a cold day too!