2008 Howell Mountain Grenache
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The 2008 Grenache is still a work in progress. Fifty percent whole clusters were used and the wine smells like a lighter vintage of the famed Rayas in Chateauneuf du Pape. Aromas of kirsch, licorice and dusty, loamy soil are sexy and seductive. It doesn’t sustain itself on the palate, but it is medium-bodied, forward and ideal for drinking over the next few years. Proprietors Kathy and Frank Dotzler along with winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown have quickly pushed this estate high on Howell Mountain to one of the leaders of that appellation. These wines all possess considerable character and the 2008s have certainly lived up to my forecast from last year, especially the Cabernets, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel. Tel. (707) 965-1718; Fax (707) 965-1761
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The 2008 Outpost Grenache is 100% Grenache from Howell Mountain that’s fermented with close to 60% whole cluster, and aged in 1 to 5 year old oak barrels. The wine sports a rusty red color, transparent color as well as complex, nuanced aromatics of dried berry and kirsch fruits, white pepper, spice, and licorice. In addition to being down right interesting, the aromas are fresh, crisp, and clean. On the palate, this is medium bodied with savory, ripe fruit, good acidity, and dusty tannins that come through on the finish. Even better on day 2, I think this will improve in the bottle over the next 2 to 4 years and drink well for a decade.
The 2008s include a beautiful 2008 Grenache, which is aged in old wood and steel barrels. (Not yet released) This has always been an impressive source for good Zinfandel as this vineyard originally produced the Lamborn Family Zinfandels. Kudos to proprietors Kathy and Frank Dotzler and winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. Tel. (707) 965-1718; Fax (707) 965-1761