2019 French Creek Block 11

100% Grenache:  

100% French Creek Vineyard, Block 11

French Creek vineyard is a new vineyard for us in 2019, and we are lucky to be able to source grenache grapes from two blocks of different clones of grenache. For our single vineyard bottlings, we decided to showcase the two different blocks to be able to compare and contrast the differences. Block 11 is all grenache clone 3, which was originally imported into the US in the 1880s for a University of California test vineyard. This is also the clone of grenache that many of the vineyards in Washington have planted.

Tasting Notes:  This grenache has a delightfully silky mouthfeel, a nose and palate that is chock full of vibrant strawberry & raspberry, mixed with a light touch of cream. These fresh fruit flavors start bright & vibrant, and then transition to a moderately tannic, sweet tart finish.

$38

Wine Enthusiast: 91 pts

In contrast to the winery's other offering from this same vineyard, fruit for this wine is Clone 3. Reserved aromas of herb, pepper and red fruit lead to spicy, pure, textured, full-feeling flavors. The emphasis here is firmly on purity and delicacy. — Sean Sullivan