Herman Story Late Bloomer Grenache 2015
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Jeb
Dunnuck -
Wine
Enthusiast
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Winemaker Notes
A day at the lake left you sun-soaked and sleepy. Dirt and wood chips stick to your feet and probably your hair, but somewhere hidden in these pines, a fire’s waiting. When you sat on the rocks with Robbie Vanderberg, after his shift at the produce market, while his friends pushed each other off the dock, did he mean to touch your hand? His sticky blackberry-stained fingers, the breeze off the water, now it’s all fading away between a flickering bonfire, carefree chatter, and a flask you’ve been passed, sweet bourbon. Curled in a camping chair, you wonder what he would do if you made a move. There’s only one way to find out.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
All Grenache aged a crazy 48 months in 40% new French oak, the 2015 Late Bloomer reveals a ruby/plum color as well as a great nose of kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, charcuterie, and ground pepper. Beautifully done, full-bodied, and silky on the palate, it's a singular, character-filled beauty that has loads to love. I don't know how long it will evolve, but a solid 4-6 years should be no problem.
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Wine Enthusiast
Always one of the most hilarious yet sweet labels of the year, this bottling begins with loads of clove, black-cardamom cream, crème brûlée and tiramisu on the nose, alongside deep black plum and black cherry. The palate carries that forward, with thick and full flavors, from black cherry to exotic vanilla bean, ending with a flash of leather.
Other Vintages
2016-
Wine
Enthusiast
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Jeb
Dunnuck
Proprietor and winemaker Russell P. From began Herman Story Wines in 2001 with 7 barrels stashed in his employer’s cellar. What started as a modest homage to his rancher grandfather has become a beacon to those seeking opulent, structured Syrah and Grenache. To maintain balance while giving flavor full stage, Russell works with 30 top-tier vineyards in over 7 distinct growing regions between Santa Barbara and Paso Robles. From's dedication has held the attention of discriminating consumers and reviewers alike, earning him a coveted position in Wine Spectator's Top 100 List in 2014 for his On the Road Grenache and and average 90+ score on CellarTracker across all wines and vintages.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!