2004 Herman Story Larner Vineyard Grenache

Herman Story Wines are made by Russell P. From, who calls himself “proprietor, winemaker and waste water specialist at Herman Story Wines.” From named his venture after his grandfather, and From is a one-man enterprise. From was a student at a nearby university when he started working in restaurants with good wine lists. He was soon enthralled with wines and the idea of winemaking and by the early 2000s was making his own wines. Based in Paso Robles, he sources grapes from up and down the California Coast, focusing on Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre and Rhone-style red and white blends. From likes one-of-a-kind labels and iconic wines names, somewhat in the style of his Central Coast neighbor, Manfred Krankl. From’s 2013 On the Road Grenache features a yellow highway dividing line on asphalt on the label. His 2013 white blend called Tomboy shows the ripped back pocket of a pair of jeans. With very limited production, Herman Story Wines are available generally only through the mailing list. Reviewers have been impressed. “A serious Central Coast producer, the Herman Story Winery builds up its strength and credibility with each new vintage,” according to Robert M. Parker Jr. .”Kudos to winemaker Russell From…”

Santa Ynez Valley AVA is home to more wineries than any other area in Santa Barbara County. The appellation was established in 1983 and it includes a total of 76,800 acres, of which 1,500 acres are vineyards. Chardonnay is the dominant grape in this appellation, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. The appellation runs east and west with temperatures and microclimates changing significantly from warmer in the east to cool by the time the district gets close to the Pacific Ocean. In recent years Rhone-style wines have been successfully made here, and vineyards now are also planted to Syrah, Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache, Mourvedre and Marsanne.

One of the most popular red varieties planted, it ripens late and prefers hot dry climates. It probably originated in Spain, where it is still widely grown. Grenache is best known for its use in Southern Rhone wines, including those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape.