Dragonette 2013 Grenache SEB   

DRAGONETTE GRENACHE, JOHN SEBASTIANO VINEYARD, SANTA YNEZ VALLEY 2013

NVWE Notes: Youthfully bright yet complex and full of contrasting elements, the nose of this Grenache fans-out an array of sour red cherry, dry cherry, red currant, black raspberry, pink and white peppercorn, dried rose, sage, bay leaf, Thai basil, sandalwood and star anise scents. Zest and chalky mineral notes underscore things on the palate, where sour cherry, blueberry cobbler, strawberry, Kirsch, rose, lavender, dried herbs, sandalwood and a hint of star anise create a lingering, notably dry, almost dusty finish. Fatty meats are a great match.

Wine Advocate

90 Points

Leading off the reds and coming from two blocks, one completely sandy soils and the other more clay, is the 2013 Grenache John Sebastiano Vineyard. (The Grenache vines here fall outside of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation so this is released as a Santa Ynez Valley AVA.) It has a beautiful, floral, feminine style as well as medium-bodied notes of sweet cherries, mulberries, spring flowers and candied violets. It's not a blockbuster, but it shines for its elegance and impeccable balance. Drink this beauty over the coming 4-6 years. Drink 2016 - 2022. 30th Aug 2016 Jeb Dunnuck