Grenache ranks among the most expensive grapes grown for Northwest winemakers, which explains why Woodinville producer Terry Wells raced to Riviere Galets Vineyard, a planting in the cobblestone owned by Tertulia Cellars in Walla Walla. (These days, viticulturist Ryan Driver is keeping more of that fruit in-house for his pal Ryan Raber.) Wells invested 18 months in four French barrels, one of them new, which might explains the hint of cola behind the nose of plum and blueberry. Deliciously dark and sweet blue fruit plays with smooth tannins that emerge on the second pass. Cherry juice and raspberry compote set the stage for a slaty finish that brings in more of that cola.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 91 cases
Alcohol: 14.8%
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