Vineyard: Located in Northern Santa Barbara’s Santa Maria Valley. Known form it’s cool climate and long growing season. The Nielson Vineyard is planted in sandy loam soils, ideal for minimizing plant vigor, creating naturally low yields, small berries and intense flavors. The vineyard is cooled by ocean breezes and coastal fog, which promote slow ripening and extended hangtime for the grapes. A small block of the vineyard was originally planted Gamay in the 1970’s, in 1991 it was grafted over to Grenache, Syrah, Petite Sirah and Mouverdre. It’s from this tiny five acre block that we created the 2004 Thomas Halby Grenache.

Winemaking: The grapes were picked at perfect ripeness and gently destemmed. Keeping as many whole berries as possible, the grapes were transferred to small open top tanks for fermentation. Twice daily punch downs were preformed to maximize color and flavor extraction. After two weeks the wine was transferred to a mix of French oak barrels, 1/3 of which were new oak. The wines spent 16 months in barrels and racked and bottled unfiltered.

Tasting Notes: Deep purple in color. Aromas of ripe plum, blueberries and cream are complimented by floral notes with hints of sweet oak, white pepper and spice. Medium to full bodied in weight, rich fruit flavors of ripe plums, pomegranates, and wild berries fan out on the palate with touches of vanilla and spice. The wine shows complexity, supple fruit, with well integrated tannins and silky textured finish. Drinks well now.