This is the deepest colored and densest Grenache-based wine we have made, very much in the style of our classic southern Rhone inspiration. We dropped yields on a couple blocks of Grenache this vintage to about ½ ton/acre. The low yields gave us some heady, deep and powerful blending material. On its own it seemed unbalanced, but combined with our other Grenache blocks and a little Syrah and Mourvedre, 9% each, we preserved the fruit intensity of Grenache but achieved a fine equilibrium on the palate.

Bésoleil 2008 is very dark ruby, with a dense core and a hint of magenta on the edge. It sports an expressive aroma of sweet, penetrating black raspberry and strawberry, with layers of cream, lavender, thyme and licorice. It has a fuller palate impression than past years, with a bit more grip to help it age in the cellar.
 

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• 82% Grenache
• 9% Syrah
• 9% Mourvedre

Barrel Program:

• ​100% French oak
• 100% 1 fill (one year neutralized oak)

Aging Profile:

• Serve cool, 58-62°F
• Best from 2011 thru 2016

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

• Ciel du Cheval Vineyard, Red Mountain 
• Olsen Vineyard, Yakima Valley
• Alder Ridge Vineyards, Horse Heaven Hills