2014 Torrin Grenache The Maven

Brilliant ruby-red. Mineral-accented red and dark berry, licorice and incense aromas are complemented by peppery spice and violet pastille qualities. Intense raspberry and bitter cherry flavors show excellent depth and smooth, supple texture. Becomes sweeter with air and picks up a subtle licorice nuance on the back half. Clings with strong tenacity on the youthfully tannic finish and leaves behind sexy Moroccan spice and red fruit preserve notes.

Made from 100% Grenache, all from the estate Torrin Vineyard, the 2014 The Maven sports a medium ruby, translucent color as well as a fabulous bouquet of framboise, crushed flowers, dried strawberries and incense. Deep, rich and concentrated, with building tannin, this full-bodied beauty is certainly up with some of the finest Grenaches coming out California. In addition, I struggle to think of another Grenache from California made in this ethereal style at this quality level. This cuvée was mostly destemmed and spent 18 months in 400-liter French oak puncheons before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. Another estate I’ve raved about for years is Viquel and Scott Hawley’s Torrin Vineyard. These are unquestionably big, rich, Paso-styled wines, but they continue to get more and more elegance into their wines, while not sacrificing texture and richness. These latest 2014s are sensational. In addition, while I couldn’t taste the wines, they’ve also started a new Lagom label focused on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.