2018 Vanguardist 'Rende' Grenache

REVIEW
Robert Rende helped his father plant this vineyard (Blewitt Springs) back in 1969, and now lives there. It was a single pick, single ferment, single demi muid that “possessed the qualities I’m searching for with V. Power structure and finesse while staying light on its feet.”, says winemaker Michael Corbett. I think total production was around 600 bottles, and will be finished with a wax cap. Not sure of the final pricing, though I suspect (well) north of $150.

First and foremost, it’s a wine that’s defined by its ultra-mineral quality and quartz-like tannin. In with that, you have ripe red berries, seductive potpourri perfume, peanuts, a little biscuit and baking spice, along with some sage and aniseed. It’s medium-bodied, fresh, but firm and packed with stony/chalky tannin, ample fruit, though nothing sweet or overt. Finish is long, dry and firm, almost a Barolo-like quality to it (which is no bad thing, of course). It feels like a long-term wine, and should probably be left alone for a year or two, at least. I’d say it’s a benchmark for Grenache.

97 POINTS
Gary Walsh, The Wine Front