Wine Details
Vintage: 2022
Alcohol: 14.6%
pH: 3.75
TA: 5.5 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.8 g/L (Dry)
Production: 340 cases
Bottle Price: $45
2022 Gaffer's Grenache
Bright, Fruit-Forward, and Silky
Winemaking
Harvest Date: September 24, 2022
Barrel Aging: 15 months
Oak: 30% new French oak, 70% neutral
Toast Level: Light-Medium
Fermentation: Native yeast, open-top fermenters
Bottling Date: December 20, 2023
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep ruby-garnet with brilliant clarity. Medium+ body with prominent legs indicating ripe fruit concentration.
Nose
Intensely aromatic with ripe strawberry jam, cherry compote, and raspberry liqueur. Warm vintage character shows through with notes of dried fig, cinnamon, and star anise. Hints of Mediterranean herbs and garrigue add savory depth.
Palate
Rich and lush with velvety tannins. Concentrated red fruit flavors of strawberry, cherry, and red plum dominate. Mid-palate reveals layers of warm spice, cocoa, and toasted almond. The warm vintage produces generous fruit with supple texture.
Finish
Long and expressive with persistent fruit and spice. Notes of dried flowers and sweet oak linger. The wine's richness is balanced by integrated acidity, showcasing Grenache's ability to shine in warmer vintages.
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
2022 was a warm, early vintage that favored Grenache. The drought-tolerant 1103P rootstock performed exceptionally well, allowing the vines to thrive despite limited water. Early harvest captured optimal phenolic ripeness while preserving freshness. Gamgee's Block, at 850 feet elevation, benefited from cool evening breezes that maintained acidity in the ripe fruit.
Drinking Window
Peak: 2025-2029
Delicious now and will evolve gracefully through 2031.
Purchase This Wine
Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery
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