2018 Grosjean Torrette

Region: Vallee D’Aoste < Italy   

Grapes: 80% Petit Rouge+ Viens de Nus, Fumin, Doucet, Mayolet    

Vineyard/Cellar Stats: certified biodynamic farming; terraced vineyards on granitic limestone soil; fermented in steel and aged in neutral oak; bottled unfined/unfiltered with minimal So2; 13% ABV

Winemakers: The 5 Grosjean brothers!

MOUNTAIN MAGIC: High up in the Alps on the border of France (and the base of Mont Blanc), the Valle d’Aoste is a hidden gem in Italy, with more castles than residents.  Tiny vineyard plots on volcanic soil dot the fairytale alpine landscape. At 600m (roughly 2000 feet), the Grosjean vineyards flying high

CRISTIN HERE: The first time I tried this wine I was at an iconic San Francisco restaurant known, and our server recommended the Grosjean Torrette…. I was like, ‘what is that?’ and he was like, ‘I can’t pronounce it but its SO good’.  We ordered a bottle. And then quickly put it all in my belly. Its insanely quaffable to begin with, but it was perfect with everything that came out of the wood oven in that kitchen. Every time I see this bottle I think fondly of that memorable meal - a special wine can be like a song in its ability to conjure up a sense memory.  Torrette, the local name for a blend of local red varietals, is supremely drinkable; lots of juicy red fruit, black tea, peppery and tart acid that goes down way too easy. If you like Gamay, especially of the Beaujolais Village variety, this is up your alley. Serve slightly chilled.