2008 J. R. Storey Herder Vineyard Grenache, Paso Robles - Advanced color shows a considerable amount of bricking. But I've found this to be pretty consistent with Storey's style. He obviously isn't a winemaker whose primary concern is color extraction. On the nose, very pleasant red fruit aromas that run the gauntlet from strawberry to cherry to raspberry along with a very nice touch of saddle leather. The leathery note follows through on the soft, fruit- and vanilla-tinged palate. A whopping 15.7% alcohol may be a turn-off to some, but the wine really handles it quite well. Tannins and acidity are nicely-balanced and demure; lurking in the shadows. Despite the high alcohol, I think this would be lovely with spicy food. Drink sooner rather than later. About $20. John Ross Storey continues to show a deft hand in turning out Syrah, Grenache and Rhone-style blends from Paso Robles that are in no way over-ripe or over-extracted.
Disclaimer: This wine was received as a free sample from J.R. Storey Winery and I am (very seriously) considering representing this wine in Kansas.
I'm curious with that wine, I wish to visit the place and taste it. It sounds so fine with me.
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