The Corkscrew Concierge

Starting at the end of the day and working my way back to the beginning.

I recently had a discussion with a couple of other wine peeps about how we are just in love with Grenache these days. I’ve definitely enjoyed more of it the last two or three years and am a big fan of the ones from CA Central Coast and Australia’s McLaren Vale. I also of course love the ones from Priorat as well as the dessert version from France’s Banyuls. Since I really enjoy it, I’ve been happy to see some crop up in Texas. Far from getting as much love as Cab Sauv, Merlot, and Tempranillo in Texas, the ones I’ve had have been excellent.

My faves have been from Ron Yates, Spicewood Vineyards, and Sandy Road Vineyards. Of course when you see that winemaker Reagan Sivadon has his hand in all three wineries, I guess I shouldn’t be surprised.

So many times you find Grenache combined with its cousins - Syrah and Mourvèdre- in a “GSM” blend, but not on its own. So I’ve been so happy to find some varietal expressions whether red or rosé. Of course, the way it’s been mistreated over the decades and thrown into ubiquitous bulk wines, I can certainly understand why some people stay away. But man, when it’s done well…

Why do I enjoy it? I like the fresh, juicy, vibrant red fruits that I often get from Grenache. I also like that it tends to be lower tannin (depending on where it’s from) which is my preferred dinner pairing partner. Whether we’re doing chicken or pork, vegetarian, or even seafood (grilled salmon tacos are perfect!), there is so much versatility in Grenache. Even a bigger, more robust Grenache from the likes of Priorat still provides smooth tannins - sometimes with a little patience.

I like rosé made from Grenache for the same reasons. Its just gives that fresh, summer berry fruit vibe. I’ve had this Grenache rosé from Spicewood Vineyards on a number of occasions and it is always a hit.

Spicewood Vineyards
Texas Fine Wine

It was a great Mother's Day weekend! Great restaurants with family, wine with friends, my baby girl's last official day of high school capped off with Senior Skirt Day, and so much more. Grateful for it all.