2016 The Pope

A grape that we so commonly find in G-S-M blends, it was time to let Grenache shine. The Pope (claiming its name from the Avignon Popes) is made up of 100% Grenache. We wanted to represent the true expression of this varietal, gently sorting and destemming the fruit and aging it in 100% neutral French oak. This Grenache was grown and sourced from the Willow Creek District in Paso Robles.

Ratings

91 pts - Wine Enthusiast

"Made from 100% Grenache, the 2016 The Pope offers a terrific bouquet of kirsch and blackberry fruits intermixed with notes of crushed violets, incense, and dried orange peel. This medium to full-bodied, supple, seamless Grenache is fleshy, forward, and balanced, and ideal for drinking over the coming 4-5 years". --- 90 pts, Jeb Dunnuck

Tasting Notes

The 2016 Pope stands out in our line-up, 100% Grenache is hard to find. This wine bursts with bright red fruit, black berries and a hint of sandalwood. Staying true to a Grenache, this is a medium to full-bodied wine with supple tannins and a tiny hint of white pepper.

Vineyard Notes

Siliceous shale, Clay loam, Calcareous Limestone

Winemaking

This Grenache was picked in September and October 2018. The grapes were sorted, 100% de-stemmed, and fermented in stainless steel, concrete tanks and fermenting bins. Élevage included punchdowns, pumpovers and délestage. The wine aged for 19 months in neutral French oak. Bottled on April 13, 2018.

Food Pairings

Wild mushroom and pancetta risotto
Lamb Tagine
Chicken Makhani (Butter Chicken)