Groundwork, 2009 Grenache, Santa Barbara County

"Sans Liege is the brain-child of Curt Schalchlin who worked for David Corey of Core Wines and Russell From and Mac Myers of Barrel 27, Herman Story and McPrice Myers. Definitely pushing the envelope for richness, you wouldn't mistake these wines for their French counterparts but they well reflect how these varietals express themselves here in California. The 2007 Groundwork Santa Barbara County Grenache is a hedonistic example of this grape varietal. It has copious amounts of red cherry fruit, some spice notes and a smooth easy finish. It is not huge on structure, so don't think to put this one away but it is pure pleasure in a glass right now and for the next couple of years". (Keith Mabry, K&L Hollywood)

This wine flaunts the diversity and elegance of Central Coast Grenache, leading with aromatics of raspberry cobbler, white pepper, Moroccan dates, tart cherries, cocoa powder, brown sugar and Provencal lamb stew. In the mouth are subtle shadings from blood orange, eucalyptus, fresh ground espresso roast, thyme, forest floor and grilled venison. A pleasant, dusty herbaciousness rounds out the palate, recalling rosemary, sage and tarragon.

"Curt Schalchlin–winemaker and owner of both the Sans Liege and the Groundwork labels–is making some of the most interesting and sought-after wines in the state of California.  His winemaking style, eccentric personality and artistic labels are all very reminiscent of that of Manfred Krankl of Sine Qua Non fame.

Sans Liege and Groundwork are two tiny one-man shows located in the heart of Santa Barbara County.  From the vineyard to the cellar, from marketing to delivery, Curt does it all.  While wearing so many hats admittedly keeps him incredibly busy, it also guarantees that his uncompromising high level standards are consistently met and the proof is in every bottle of wine that he makes.  Curt’s passion flows in his current lineup of latest and greatest, which showcases his talents and highlights the great success that was seen in both the 2009 and 2010 vintages along the Central Coast and beyond.

While no one would mistake this for a French wine, it is a wonderful interpretation of this famous Rhone varietal.  It starts out with dusty red fruit, grenadine, violets and chalky mineral notes with a fine balance of fruit intensity and spice. The red raspberry, strawberry and cheery fruit coats the palate with hints of crushed rock, fennel, white pepper, truffle and anise." www.sfwtc.com

Tavosa, 2010 Grenache Rosé, Sonoma Valley

Tavosa Wines is located in Sonoma, California. The Benz and O'Connor families have partnered with winemaker Justin Estes to create small batch wines inspired by Old World wine regions.

Tavosa already had a foot in the door at the girl & the fig, so when the wine was ready, it was welcomed with open arms. This is the first wine from a small family winery that has dreamed about making this happen, and indeed it has.  We were fortunate to have worked with Nick's wife Lenka, so we had an insider tip when the wine was ready. And with only 48 cases of their first wine, we were happy to be in line.

Among the grapes that Tavosa purchases come come from the Kick Ranch, vineyards that we have grown to respect for their enthusiastic efforts with Rhone grape varietals. Kick Ranch has become a “reference point” vineyard for Rhone varietal grapes in Sonoma County, and in addition, some killer Sauvignon Blanc wines. The vineyard is on a beautiful hillside planted on historic land - a vineyard flourished there by 1880. 

In a recent Q & A with owner Nick Benz, he contemplates the start of his personal wine business.

Nick Benz

Why did you decide to start Tavosa?

The old adage...find something you love and you will never work another day in your life.

What was the biggest lesson you learned this year?

Patience.  The wine industry can be an obstacle course.  To succeed you need the patience and solid plan forward.

Their first wine, a lovely refreshing Grenache Rose has the aromas of rose petals on a plate of fresh cut summer melons. 

Justin Estes, Winemaker -  In 2007 he received an internship offer with the highly acclaimed Pinot Noir producer Kosta Browne. After two months of complete immersion, he knew he found his career path. The following Southern Hemisphere harvest took Justin to the Barossa Valley in South Australia where he worked at Teusner Wines, a renowned producer of Rhone varietals. He fell in love with the aromas and blending capabilities the grape has to offer.  After another harvest at Kosta Brown, Justin took an opportunity at Landmark Vineyards where he met Nick.

When winemaker, Justin Estes was asked, what would you pair with the 2010 Grenache Rosé?
His response was a sensible one for a very refreshing wine --- I would pair this Rosé with a hot summer day and good friends.

websites:  Tavosa
                Kick Ranch