2015 David & Nadia Grenache

(a small quantity of Syrah skins was used during fermentation for color stability; vinified with about 40% whole clusters): Juicy, firm and delineated but with compelling insinuating sweetness to the candied red fruit, spice and rose petal flavors. As brisk and fresh as the 2014 bottling: wonderfully penetrating, floral Grenache with a rising finish featuring a firm dusting of fine-grained tannins. Sexy, vibrant wine--and just 13.5% alcohol.

The 2015 Grenache comes from three vineyards (two-thirds granite and one-third clay soils) courtesy of vines planted in the early 2000s. The bouquet offers plenty of red cherry and crushed strawberry fruit, although it needs a little more complexity to come through like it did with the 2014. The palate is well balanced with crisp tannin, tart red cherry, cranberry and black pepper notes, attenuating slightly towards the finish. It is a pleasurable Grenache, although I preferred the 2014 when I tasted it on my previous visit.

Very pale, very light and delicate – perhaps even a little too thin? Rather that than too heavy, though – and the flavour ripeness isn't in question. Drink lightly chilled. (RH)