2014 Sheldon, Grenache Blanc, Sonoma Coast.
The latest Grenache Blanc from Dylan and Tobe Sheldon is a wildly expressive white with exotic tropical notes and plenty of verve, it is without question one of the most interesting and balanced versions they’ve made to date from their cool climate sites. Grenache Blanc, usually found in the southern Rhone Valley and most famously in Chateauneuf du Pape whites has found a home in California, but it is more happy happy in the warmer areas best suited to the varietal, it’s natural home in California seems to be west side Paso Robles, though there are good plantings in Santa Barbara County and Monterey County as well as southern Oregon and eastern Washington State. That didn’t stop the Sheldon’s from finding cooler Sonoma sites that have managed to produce fine grapes for their micro bottlings and the 2014 is wonderfully flavorful and seductive, fermented on native yeasts and with lower natural alcohol. Sheldon Wines latest handcrafted Grenache Blanc starts with citrus and bruised pear with mineral and spice notes leading to an explosion on the palate of white peach, lemon/lime, wet stones, saline/tangy brine and pina colada! Yes pineapple and coconut burst from the glass, but while this is not true to form, it is not off putting and adds to the pleasure in this vibrant white, quickly apricot and tangerine take center stage and linger on the finish, and with food the wine tames and gains vigor, this stuff is awesome with Moroccan dishes and rocks with spicy seafood and shellfish stews. I have tried this beautiful white twice now and love it, it shows bright acidity and freshness which keeps things in focus while enchanting mouth feel and exciting layers reveal themselves like a sexy fan dancer! Drink now, it’s too much fun to wait and be sure to check out the other great new offerings from Sheldon, especially the 2014 Syrah, the Red Hat old vine Petite Sirah and 2014 Vinolocity Grenache Noir.
($35 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive