Loads of cracked black pepper, black licorice, caramel and berry liqueur smells introduce the Stellareese Grenache 2018. Spice and intense red fruits continue on the strong, high-octane palate. Wild mini-strawberries, hard raspberry candies, jasmine, lavender, grated ginger root, cinnamon and anise flavors dominate. With fine and firm tannins, good acidity and a 15 second spicy finish, the wines shows particularly well with full-flavored but not spicy hot white meats. I served Asian chicken & pork lettuce cups with this wine to my guests’ great satisfaction. Whole cluster ferment to showcase the spice. Aged in previously used French oak.
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Rachel Stellareese Davies started Stellareese in 2007 while at T-Vine Cellars, working for Greg Brown. In 2013 the winemaking moved to Outpost Winery on Howell Mountain and is now made by husband and business partner Geoff Davies. Since the first vintage in 2007 up to now the Cabernet has come from “Marcey’s,” a mature, organic vineyard on the north side of Calistoga. One of the more original names I’ve come across, Stellareese combines Rachel’s parents’ affection for “A Streetcar Named Desire” and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
