Blog | September 2021
Get to Know Our Grenache Blanc
You don’t hear about a lot of Grenache Blanc coming from the Napa Valley, but that’s only one of the reasons why we choose to produce it. Aside from the fact that it’s Winemaker Craig Becker’s favorite wine in our portfolio (shhh… don’t tell the other wines!), our Priest Ranch Grenache Blanc is a delightful departure from the usual white wine suspects that you truly can’t go wrong with.
The Backstory
Grenache Blanc—a mutation of the red Grenache grape—is a full-bodied white wine that originated in northern Spain and is predominantly found in the Roussillon region of France. Introduced to the Central Coast of California in 1992, the grape’s acreage in California is primarily planted in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties but also found in the North Coast and Sierra Foothills. Most significant to our story are the mere seven acres planted in Napa Valley, 4.9 of which can be found at Blocks 6 and 7 of our hillside estate vineyards.
Why We Produce It
Grenache Blanc in the Napa Valley, you say? It’s true that the valley may be better known for white grapes like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, which is why it’s so exciting for us to offer something a little different and share one of Craig’s favorite varietals with you. He has found that the 1,250-foot elevation of the estate vineyard where our Grenache Blanc grapes are grown provides a cooler climate and gives the fruit a longer ripening time, thus helping to preserve the freshness of the berries. We find that the bright, pleasantly acidic wine is a wonderful complement to our full-bodied red blends, and it’s our favorite wine to serve to guests when we kick off their tasting experience.
How to Enjoy It
Whether you’re entertaining friends at a backyard BBQ, looking to impress your significant other’s parents (at a great value of $22 per bottle, no less!), or simply enjoying a splash of wine while you prepare dinner, our Grenache Blanc has a place at the table for every occasion.
For a simple cheese pairing, serve with a triple cream bloomy rind such as the French Brillat Savarin or a local favorite, Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam. The acidity of our Grenache Blanc makes it the perfect foil for richly spiced foods. Try pairing with chicken satay and cumin-coriander roasted cauliflower or blackened shrimp tacos with corn salsa and lime zested crème fraîche. Take advantage of end-of-summer vegetables and make a ratatouille to serve alongside fennel-dusted grilled pork chops. Whatever culinary path you decide to take, be sure to share and tag your pairing on Instagram and Facebook! We love seeing the many ways our fans like to enjoy Priest Ranch wines.
This wine is meant to be drunk right away but will also age for up to three years when stored in a cool, dark place—if you can stand to wait that long!
Tasting Profile
Year after year, our Grenache Blanc is beautifully crisp with a hint of minerality. The wine is fermented and aged in 100% stainless steel, maintaining a freshness throughout. In particular, our 2019 Grenache Blanc showcases delightful aromas of yellow peach, honeysuckle, and faint green apple on the nose. The entry is restrained yet welcoming, with a finish of ripe pear and bright citrus zest. It’s no wonder we sell out of this wine every year—so get yours now before it’s too late!
