2015 Sine Qua Non Grenache Le ChemIn Vers L'Heresie (Magnum)

The 2015 Grenache Le chemIn vers l’hérésIe means “the path to heresy.” As you surely know heresy is a belief contrary to orthodox doctrine, strongly at variance with established beliefs – it is a term usually used relative to religious teachings, but it is also used of views strongly opposed to any generally accepted ideas; a dissention, nonconformity, unorthodoxy and even blasphemy. I am sure not much has to be added to “explain” more. The cuvee is a paganistic marriage of 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvedre, 8% Touriga Nacional (The Man made a mistake here – this should have been a Rhone variety) and 4% Petite Sirah. We used 44% whole clusters to ferment this beauty. This mama is surprisingly dark for Grenache. There are terrific aromas and flavors of lots of blueberries, black cherries, garrigue (wild herbs, thyme, rosemary, fennel), spice and even some fountain pen ink. It has a full, voluptuous texture that covers every crevice of your mouth. There are lots of tannins, but they are lush and satiny. Although the wine starts out with a punch, it is really quite lovely and like liquid velvet. There is not only a path to “heresy” but also a path to cellaring as this will clearly reward further patience and time, although I am sure you will find it tantalizing right off the delivery truck.