2024 "Community Cuvée" Grenache & Gamay

Each lot was fermented separately with a majority of whole cluster inclusion and aged in neutral oak barrels. The Grenache was picked over the course of about 1 month. The warmer sites toward the north were picked before our first heatwave, retaining great natural acidity. The last pick from one of my own vineyards was able to hang longer as it is increasingly being shaded by sprawling coastal oaks.

With a rough idea of the barrels destined for this wine, they were racked first on the winter solstice and then again for blending on the spring equinox. This flow allows the wine to take shape for a spring bottling. Once blended in tank, the wine sat to meld together before bottling, unfined, unfiltered with a small sulfur add.

Dark red fruits, firm strawberries, and violets on the nose, with a savory edge from the whole clusters—think herbes de Provence and a generous pinch of maldon salt. The palate is bright and lifted with soft tannins and a finish that persists. Serious yet joyful with a surprising amount of structure for such a spirited little blend. I suspect this wine will age well. But for now, it’s the wine I want you to keep reaching for at dinners and hangouts. Serve at room temp or chilled, and save one for later.