I’m sipping a Saxum G2 blend and thinking … is it possible that the world’s best Grenache comes from the California Central Coast? Wildly aromatic and deep, but focused and tense.
Because of the breadth of great wines, it still has to be CDP for me. That being said, I’ve had some wonderful Grenache from California from A Tribute to Grace to Tablas Creek to SQN.
Southern Rhône followed by California.
I think a lot of people don’t actually understand Grenache. I read tasting notes on CT about how meh a Grenache is that I find spectacular.
Australia makes some superb Grenache wines, from old vines that you may not have seen in the States. Names like Cirillo, Ministy of Clouds, Bekkers and Yalumba’s Tri-centenary are all worth seeking out.
On bottles of Rayas are next level. I’ve had a few underwhelming ones too though. Saxum honestly underwhelmed me too though. Maybe I just don’t love Grenache lol
Yes, yes and yes. They are different. I think the best I have had is a 1999 Rayas about 3 years ago, but it is completely different from Saxum or SQN. I love all three, and own all three, but the Rayas is something special and very sensual and sexy, while no one could accuse Saxum or SQN of that. It’s like merlot. There is some really good merlot. I have Masseto only one, blind in a flight of three, and my response was “Holy shit, this is incredible.” Ne plus ultra.
I know as much about Grenache as I do about the social structures of dung beetles, but I did enjoy the extremely slutty Alto Montcayo a few years back. Almost new world for a spaniard (which I suppose isn’t that much of a stretch with an Aussie winemaker at helm).
Rayas is the d’Yquem of granache. No comparisons. But also very unique in its character. Grenache is most typically part of a blend. It is difficult to pull off a pure grenache. Regional terroir influences are important. I find the Priorat best able to do this. Domestically I think the Cayuse GOK is one of the best but my experience is limited.