2016 Martella Grenache   

Here is a red wine to enjoy even in the warm summer months ahead. These Grenache grapes come from two cool-climate vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains that produce full-flavored fruit with delicacy and elegance, more like a true Rhône-style wine than a California powerhouse wine.

Michael's 2016 Grenache is a clear garnet in color with subdued aromas of cherry, vanilla and plum and floral notes of jasmine. It is a medium-bodied wine, silky in texture (a silkiness much enhanced by aeration). The small percentage of Syrah in this wine adds a layer of rich fruit flavor and spice notes. Ripe tannins and fine texture make the finish smooth and satisfying.

This Grenache makes an excellent summer sipping wine, which is not what you would expect from a red wine. Enjoyable on its own, it will also make a good dinner companion with grilled chicken and braised onions. Or try it with a roasted beet salad with pears, mild blue cheese and glazed walnuts.