Troon Blue Label Grenache Rogue Valley 2016

The Data

Country USA

Appellation Rogue Valley

Varietal Grenache

Retail Price $25

ABV 14.8%

Score 4.5 Stars/95 points

In the Glass

Appearance

Brilliant, medium ruby color looking much like a Pinot Noir.

Aromatics

The nose is moderately intense offering scents of cranberry and blackberry with supporting notes of five spice, black tea, and mineral.

Flavor

The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of black cherry. The finish is long and lingering with supple tannins.

Intensity & Texture

Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with a succulent texture as it carries its strength with ease.

Cool Factor

We love Grenache and we are elated that Troon has made another 100% Grenache wine.

Value Grade

Scarcity (just 143 cases made), superb quality, and a modest price tag of $25 make this wine a super value.

Analysis

The Troon Grenache is one of those wines that marry finesse with power delivered in a perfectly balanced package. Troon says that their Grenache is reminiscent of a full-bodied Pinot Noir — we agree. Most often Grenache is blended with other red varietals but it's clearly ready to be a solo performer. The refreshing natural acidity found in this Rogue Valley Grenache provides this wine with a vibrancy that hides the strength in this wine. I could simply not believe that this wine was bottled at 14.8% abv as it never seems hot with alcohol rather nimble and restrained. 95 points.

How to Enjoy

All this wine needs is a glass but it will take the best steak tartare in the world to unexpected heights.