2011 Tuck Beckstoffer Melee Grenache

Tuck Beckstoffer Wines has a familiar ring to anyone who spends much time with California wines. Tuck Beckstoffer is part of the famous Beckstoffer Vineyards family. His father Andy Beckstoffer moved to Napa Valley in the 1960s and established some of the most prestigious vineyards in the region. Beckstoffer Vineyards owns vineyards and manages other people’s vineyards. Tuck grew up farming and working in the family business. But since the late 1990s he also has made wine. Today Tuck Beckstoffer Wines, in St. Helena, makes several labels. The Seventy-Five label is an homage to the year 1975, which was an important year for Tuck. The label is devoted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and a Bordeaux blend. Tuck Beckstoffer also makes the humorously named “Hogwash” Rosé; Melée, a Grenache; Mockingbird Cabernet Sauvignon; and Semper Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

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.