2008 Maison Bleue “Le Montagnette” Grenache
Vintage: 2008
Producer/Winery: Maison Bleue
Wine: “Le Montagnette” Grenache
Country: USA
Region: Washington
Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills: Alder Ridge Vineyard
Varietal Composition: 85 % Grenache, 15% Syrah
Aging: 10 months in 3 year old French Oak
Climate: Continental
Alcohol: 15.4 %
Winemaker: John Martinez
Production: 303 Cases
Bottle Value: $25 USD
Where: Walla Walla When: June 18, 2010 With whom: Myself
Perspective: This is one of the most elegant Grenache based wines I have discovered out of Washington State. Velvety plum, strawberry and raspberry with complex mineral and hints of spicy vanilla-must have used some nice old barrels-make this wine incredibly easy to drink. Be careful, though it does not feel like it is 15.4 % it is! Enjoyed a nice block of Cabrales blue cheese from Spain with it, which was a match made in heaven. This is truly a wine to look out for. I will post more notes on some of Maison Bleue’s other wines which are proving to be very atypical for this region. Be sure to drink this wine at cellar temperature (55 degrees) it makes a world of difference. Check him out www.mbwinery.com.
Systematic Approach
Appearance: Clear clarity. Deep ruby core and pale rim with highlights of purple in the halo. No sediment or deposits.
Nose: Clean. Medium (+) youthful aromas of wet stones, plum, strawberry, kirsch, white pepper and sweet spices.
Palate: Dry. Medium (+) acidity. Medium tannins. Medium (+) alcohol. Medium body. Medium (+) intense flavors of red cherry, wild strawberry, raspberry and plum, Balance – Dry. Lively acidity, supple tannin, generous alcohol and fruit driven. Texture – supple tannins and fluid viscosity. Overall Impression – refreshing ripeness, expressive freshness and elegant. Medium (+) length.
Conclusion: Good quality for concentration, balance and texture. Drink now and over the next 3-5 years.
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