Tasting Notes: Grenache at JavaMonkey

Grenache is an often overlooked varietal. Frequently blended, it's a nice, fruity red grape that can make you pucker if not done right. Last Thursday's wine tasting definitely had some Grenaches gone wild. Okay, maybe not, but I couldn't resist the pun.

The wines:

2008 Bitch Grenache (South Australia):
This was kind of like wine cordial in that it was sweet and strong. Atlanta Wine Guy suggested it would be good served chilled. I think I agree with him.
Rating: Good

2007 Artazuri Garnacha (Navarra, Spain):
Fruity and a little green on the nose. Berry bomb with blue- black- and strawberries.
Rating: Very Good

2007 Boots Grenache (Barossa, Australia):
A little funky on the nose. I said chemical, Hubby said Brie. Smooth start and fruit-forward with a finish like a pat of butter on the middle of the tongue.
Rating: Good

Little James' Basket Press, NV (Cotes du Rhone, France): "Grenache and sometimes other stuff."
This is one of my favorite blends. The best balanced of the bunch, smooth, and fruity.
Rating: Very Good to Excellent

2008 Monte Oton Garnacha (Campo de Borja, Spain):
Musty nose. Nice black cherry with a little bitter tartness, like plum peel.
Rating: Very Good

2008 Atteca Old Vines Garnacha (Calatayud, Spain):
Fragrant nose. Tobacco, chocolate, and sour cherry.
Rating: Good to Very Good

In other news, we visited Frogtown Winery last weekend. Will post that review soon!