Shatter Grenache 2014
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2021-
James
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Robert
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Maury, in the Roussillon region of France, is home to our hillside Grenache vines, planted more than 60 years ago. Nutrient-poor soil, strong winds and scorching heat stress the vines and cause shatter in the grape clusters. Shatter naturally thins the vines, leaving smaller clusters of intensely concentrated grapes. That flavorful fruit translates to rich, decadent wine in the glass.
Joel Gott was introduced to this extraordinary region by friend and fellow winemaker, Dave Phinney. Joel has been crafting wine under his namesake label, Joel Gott wines, for 20 years, and he has partnered on cutting edge projects, the three thieves and the show. In each case, there are 3 distinct labels that feature up-close images of the unique black schist soil of Maury. Shatter, is a refined, well-structured Grenache with succulent dark fruit notes, balanced by the soft, subtle influence of French oak. A Grenache that could only be made from the shattered vines of Maury.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.
An extensive appellation producing a diverse selection of good quality and great values, Languedoc spans the Mediterranean coast from the Pyrenees mountains of Roussillon all the way to the Rhône Valley. Languedoc’s terrain is generally flat coastal plains, with a warm Mediterranean climate and frequent risk of drought.
Virtually every style of wine is made in this expansive region. Most dry wines are blends with varietal choice strongly influenced by the neighboring Rhône Valley. For reds and rosés, the primary grapes include Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. White varieties include Grenache Blanc, Muscat, Ugni Blanc, Vermentino, Macabéo, Clairette, Piquepoul and Bourbelenc.
International varieties are also planted in large numbers here, in particular Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The key region for sparkling wines here is Limoux, where Blanquette de Limoux is believed to have been the first sparkling wine made in France, even before Champagne. Crémant de Limoux is produced in a more modern style.