A couple of nights ago my wife and I had a very nice Washington wine, the 2005 Alexandria Nicole Grenache. Normally the grenache varietal is reserved for blending into more prominent red wines like cabernet sauvignon and merlot. But recently we have seen more and more traditional blending grapes showcased on their own. And we have to say, Alexandria Nicole has a winner here.

Here are the winemaker’s notes:

“This Sun-Worshiper thrives on the intense heat and direct sun-light it receives from the top of Destiny Ridge Vineyards. Our Grenache is planted in sandy soils overlaying broken basalt and overlooks the majestic Columbia River. The rugged wind that blows down the Columbia adds additional stress to the vines and helps produce the provocative aromas of blackberries, raspberries, earth, sandstone and grapefruit; followed by a wine with huge body, fabulous concentration, and wonderful minerality in the finish.”