Villa Creek "SOuL" Grenache 2023
We have 11 in stock (Inventory is live and accurate)
The Land
Villa Creek's "SOuL" Grenache originates from their estate vineyards nestled in the Adelaide District of Paso Robles (San Luis Obispo County, California). This region experiences high diurnal temperature shifts, which are vital for maintaining acidity and complexity in the grapes. Villa Creek's meticulous approach to sustainable farming practices, including cover cropping and biodynamic preparations, plays a vital role in shaping the character of this wine. They use a minimal intervention approach, ensuring the vines are healthy and expressing their terroir. This estate is also one of just a handful of wineries in the world to be Regenerative Organic Certified.
The Wine
This 2023 "SOuL" Grenache is a captivating expression of Paso Robles Grenache, crafted using a unique whole-cluster carbonic maceration technique. Unlike traditional Grenache production, the grapes undergo fermentation whole inside the bunch. This gentle process minimizes tannin extraction and preserves the fruit's delicate character, resulting in a lighter-bodied and more approachable wine. The wine boasts a shimmering ruby color and on the nose, it explodes with expansive aromatics of juicy cherry, bramble berries, and hints of violets. Subtle notes of orange peel and a touch of black pepper add complexity to the bouquet. The first sip reveals a fresh and juicy palate, bursting with flavors of strawberries and rhubarb. Hints of plum pit and a touch of minerality, reminiscent of limestone. The wine's vibrant acidity keeps the palate lively, while the soft, well-integrated tannins create a seamless and elegant mouthfeel. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of red fruit and a subtle mineral note.
The People
Villa Creek Winery, a family-owned and operated estate, has been a leader in sustainable viticulture in the Adelaide District of Paso Robles for over 30 years. Their dedication to minimal intervention winemaking allows the soul of the vineyard, as the name suggests, to shine through in every bottle. The "SOuL" Grenache exemplifies Villa Creek's philosophy, showcasing not only the beauty of Grenache grapes but also the unique terroir of their estate.
Food Pairing:
The "SOuL" Grenache's lighter body and vibrant acidity make it a versatile food pairing companion. Here are some suggestions inspired by the wine's profile:
- Mezze Platter: Pair it with a selection of grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and peppers, drizzled with olive oil and herbs. Baba ghanoush, a smoky roasted eggplant dip, or Greek salad would also be a delightful complement.
- Herb-Crusted Lamb: The wine's bright acidity cuts through the richness of lamb, making it a perfect partner for herb-rubbed lamb chops or grilled leg of lamb.
- Pizza: Enjoy it with pizzas featuring lighter toppings like tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh arugula. A pizza with pesto and vegetables would also be a delicious option.
We ship wine to most states with a $100 minimum order for shipping. We don't ship spirits nor beer.
Weather shipping advisory: Orders placed during times of extreme heat or extreme cold will be held for no charge until more favorable weather returns.
California's Central Coast is a sprawling and diverse wine region stretching from south of San Francisco all the way to Santa Barbara. This vast area encompasses a wide range of climates and terroirs, resulting in a remarkable diversity of wine styles. Monterey County, known for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, benefits from the influence of the Monterey Bay. The Santa Cruz Mountains, with their high elevation and proximity to the Pacific, produce elegant, cool-climate wines. Paso Robles, known for its warm days and cool nights, is renowned for its bold Zinfandel and Rhône-style blends. Santa Barbara, despite its southerly latitude, boasts surprisingly cool climates due to the unique east-west orientation of its valleys, which funnel cool ocean breezes inland, creating ideal conditions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Central Coast's varied geography and range of climates contribute to its standing as a highly dynamic winemaking area.
California - Central Coast
Grenache is a widely planted grape variety that thrives in its Mediterranean home. In Spain, it's known as Garnacha, where it reaches its peak in the Sierra de Gredos as a pure varietal wine, while also being a key blending component in Rioja. France's Southern Rhône, notably Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is another well-known region, where Grenache is often the base of a blended wine. Grenache also finds a home in Sardinia as Cannonau, and it has spread beyond its Mediterranean origins, most famously to Australia's Barossa Valley. The resulting wines are typically light in color, yet they possess a full body and flavor, displaying mature red fruit notes, herbal spices, and often a hint of orange peel, along with soft tannins and moderate acidity. It is an incredibly versatile grape, showing different expressions based on its terroir and the winemaking style employed.
