2013 Keplinger Lithic

The 2013 Lithic, Keplinger's Grenache-based red, is superb. Delineated, focused and bright, the 2013 shows the darker side of Grenache, along with nuanced aromatics and fabulous balance. Hints of licorice, flowers and spices add nuance in the glass, but like all of these 2013s, the Lithic speaks to absolute finesse. Interestingly, the fruit profile is quite dark for a Grenache-based wine, while the 30% whole clusters are nearly buried.