Wine Details
Vintage: 2021
Alcohol: 14.2%
pH: 3.68
TA: 5.9 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.5 g/L (Dry)
Production: 325 cases
Bottle Price: $42
2021 Gaffer's Grenache
Bright, Fruit-Forward, and Silky
Winemaking
Harvest Date: October 8, 2021
Barrel Aging: 14 months
Oak: 25% new French oak, 75% neutral
Toast Level: Light-Medium
Fermentation: Native yeast, open-top fermenters
Bottling Date: December 15, 2022
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Bright garnet-ruby with amber edges. Medium body with delicate legs, showcasing the wine's elegant structure.
Nose
Aromatic and expressive with fresh strawberry, red cherry, and raspberry coulis. Notes of orange peel, rose petal, and dried lavender add floral complexity. Subtle hints of white pepper and garrigue.
Palate
Silky and refined with supple tannins. Vibrant red fruit flavors of wild strawberry, cranberry, and pomegranate. Mid-palate reveals subtle spice, dried herbs, and a touch of candied orange peel. Bright acidity keeps the wine fresh and lively.
Finish
Medium length with lingering red fruit and floral notes. Delicate spice and herbal undertones emerge. The silky texture and balanced acidity make this an incredibly food-friendly wine.
Food Pairing
This elegant Grenache pairs beautifully with:
Mediterranean Cuisine
Herb-crusted lamb, ratatouille, grilled vegetable platters, or Provençal chicken
Charcuterie & Cheese
Prosciutto, salami, aged Manchego, or soft-ripened cheeses
Light & Fresh
Duck breast with cherry reduction, mushroom tart, or tuna niçoise salad
Vintage Notes
The 2021 vintage in Dry Creek Valley provided ideal conditions for Grenache. Moderate temperatures during the growing season allowed for gradual flavor development while preserving natural acidity. The Alban clone, planted in 2012, is now reaching maturity and producing beautifully balanced fruit with excellent concentration and aromatic complexity.
Drinking Window
Peak: 2024-2028
Drinking wonderfully now and will continue to develop through 2029.
Purchase This Wine
Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery
Visit Winery Website →