This is the time of year when things really start moving. Winemakers expand their duties as the vines expand their canopies. We are earlier to rise and make the most of the increased daylight hours. In some ways I think we might actually photosynthesize this sunlight...

As summer season approaches, we start to gather clues about our next harvest. We start to see the growth of the vines and the set of the fruit. We start to experience what the fruit is experiencing, warm days and cool nights. We even feel the winds that pleasurably circulate the air throughout the canopy. Ah...it's that time again. Awakened from the sleepy days of winter, we have gracefully emerged into a new vintage season.

Last week I vigorously pulled out a bung from one of our 2007 Grenache barrels. I had last remembered this wine to taste fruity, like strawberries and watermelon. When I pulled the wine thief out slowly, using care to look at the color, I surprisingly said, "WOW!" The hue of Grenache was extraordinary. Brilliant, bright cherry colored with a purple tint as it filled my tasting glass.  I carefully lifted the glass to my nose and pronounced the most wonderful dark aromas. As I tasted the wine, I realized something I had never witnessed before. This Grenache, from the DGV estate, was completely full and circular. The tannins were perfectly positioned. These vines have arrived at a place where deep extraction and pure bliss can be achieved.

Grenache is my favorite summer red. It's elegant yet rugged, rich yet fresh, and it pairs with a wide range of food flavors. I drink Garnacha from Spain, Grenache from the North Coast, Paso, and the Foothills. I love Grenache blends from France and especially Grenache rosé. One of the things I love about Grenache is that almost everyone loves it. It's different, but so pleasing to the palate.

I'm looking forward to working with the next year of Grenache. For now, I'll be sipping my way through summer with this fantastic wine.

Cheers!