2023 Grenache Distenta V

Bottled only three weeks before this tasting, the 2023 Grenache Distenta V is deeply aromatic and exquisitely pure, a wine of both sensuality and structure. Crushed stones, gravel and graphite infuse the palate with mineral intensity, while lavender, blood orange and macerated cherry notes quietly build layers of nuance. A spine of fine tannin carries the 2023 through a taut, finely chiseled finish, accentuated by the inclusion of 25% whole clusters that bring attractive spice. Elegant, persistent and beautifully integrated, this is a Grenache of clarity and poise. The blend is 81.8% Grenache, 8.6% Mourvèdre, 7.7% Syrah, 1.3% Muscat and 0.6% Petit Manseng. 

- Billy Norris (08/2025)

Based on 81.8% Grenache, 8.6% Mourvèdre, 7.7% Syrah, and the rest white varieties, the 2023 Grenache Distenta V will spend 23 months in 58% new French oak, with the balance in demi-muids and used barrels. Ripe black raspberries, black cherries, roasted herbs, graphite, and peppery, spicy notes all define the aromatics. It's full-bodied, round, layered, and has incredible purity. This is a killer wine in the making. (09/2025)

The 2023 Grenache Distenta V comes from four estate vineyards: 42.2% Cumulus Estate, 28.2% Eleven Confessions, 24.5% The Third Twin, and 5.1% Molly Aida. 81.8% Grenache is blended with 7.7% Syrah, 8.6% Mourvèdre, and Petite Sirah, plus dashes of Muscat and Petit Manseng. The fermentation was performed with 25.4% whole cluster, mainly Grenache. It was aged 23 months in French oak, mostly larger demi-muids, 57.8% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it needs a little swirling to coax out notes of black and red cherries, juicy strawberries, and black raspberries, followed by hints of cinnamon stick, rose bud tea, and mossy tree bark. The full-bodied palate is plush and juicy with bags of red, black, and blue fruit and plenty of freshness, finishing long and peppery. (09/2025)