Bitch Grenache 2007

Bitch, a provocatively named 100% Grenache from R Wines, achieves the potential of this difficult-to-grow grape. Winemakers Chris Ringland and Lisa Wetherell use fruit sourced from vineyards in the Ebenezer sub-region of Barossa Valley in South Australia. Yields from the 25-year-old vines grown in sand over clay are modest, 3 to 5 tons an acre.

The nose and palate are a delicate mix of fruit characters; perfumed raspberries, peach, and poached quince. The palate extends to a juicy, fleshy texture with confectionary flavors of strawberries and cream and finishes with spicy, cloves, and nutmeg.