2016 LaBarge Grenache

About 2016 LaBarge Grenache:

For Pierre LaBarge, producing fine wines is a uniquely personal mission. In the tradition of Europe’s finest domains, dating back generations, Pierre is hands-on with every aspect of production at LaBarge. From vineyard plotting, to barrel racking, even to washing up at the end of the day.

Tasting Notes:

The 2016 LaBarge Grenache is medium to deep ruby-purple with a nose of toasted coconut, hoisin and peppered meats with cranberry sauce, blueberry coulis, black and red cherry jam, stewed rhubarb and crushed strawberries—very pretty tricolored fruit with underlying notes of spice, amaro and dried flowers. Medium to full-bodied, it floods the mouth with chocolate and charcuterie-tinged fruits, with firm, pleasantly chewy tannins and integrated freshness, finishing very long and layered. 445 cases produced.

Barrel Selection:

aged 22 months in neutral barrels, foudres and large puncheons

Growing Notes:

Grapes grown on estate vineyard in Santa Rita Hills. The cool marine climate of the Santa Rita Hills brings a rich depth of flavor, with high-toned red fruit on a bed of loamy earth.

The estate is located in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation in Santa Barbara County.  The mixture of soils ranges from clay loam to sandy clay topsoil over diatomaceous earth and its variants, as well as calcareous shale – compressed, sedimentary rock of siliceous and calcareous ooze. Plantings consist of 12 acres of California heritage and ENTAV-INRA clones encompassing Pinot noir, Grenache, Syrah, Albariño, and Viognier. Planting densities are 2,420 vines per acre on a vertical shoot positioned trellis. All canopy management is employed by hand with the great thought and care required for farming organically in such a wild and challenging environment.

Winemaking Notes:

LaBarge Pinot Noir consists of 100% Grenache and is produced by winemaker Pierre LaBarge IV. Being a true domaine, all management of vineyards, winemaking, élevage, bottling, labeling, packaging, landscaping, and sales is performed by Pierre LaBarge IV, and a small and dedicated crew. Made using 75% whole cluster and aged 22 months in neutral barrels, foudres and large puncheons.

About The Winery:

For Pierre LaBarge, producing fine wines is a uniquely personal mission. In the tradition of Europe’s finest domains, dating back generations, Pierre is hands-on with every aspect of production at LaBarge. From vineyard plotting, to barrel racking, even to washing up at the end of the day. Before investing in his own winery, Pierre studied soil science and viticulture in San Luis Obispo. He went on to learn from the best, working for Shadow Canyon and then for Manfred Krankl. He brings both this experience and an obsessive dedication to his very own new Estate in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA of Santa Barbara County. His objective is simple: produce the most delicious and thought-provoking wines possible.