Nose
This is an aromatic white wine with bright aromas of white peach, melons, and honeysuckle.
Palate
The palate is sharp with good acidity, minerality, bright stone fruits and a touch of tannins.
Growing Conditions
The historic Priest Ranch is now part of the Somerston Estate, a significant property totaling 1,615 acres with 215 acres planted to hillside vineyards. The dramatic elevations of the vineyards define and distinguish the estate, ranging from 800 ft to 2,400 ft above sea level. The wines of Priest Ranch are blends from multiple blocks that showcase the diversity and complexity of the combined property. Our 2016 Grenache Blanc grapes are selected from Blocks 6 and 7, a 4.9-acre vineyard planted at an elevation of 1,250 feet.
Everything about the 2016 vintage was early, from bud break in early March to harvest. The near-perfect growing season saw ideal warm weather conditions throughout spring and summer days.
Harvest
Lighter than usual yield accelerated the start of the harvest which began in September. The Grenache Blanc was hand harvested over a period of three days.
Winemaking
The Priest Ranch Grenache Blanc was fermented in stainless steel drums and tanks.
Aging
Native yeasts fermented the wine at a controlled 60 degrees F. The lees were stirred twice a month for five months then the wine was bottled.
