2014 TOR Grenache Palisades Vineyard Napa Valley 750 ml

Tor’s Challenge: a Napa “Grand Cru” vs. CdP

Tor Kenward has been striving to make Napa Valley Grenache that rivals Châteauneuf-du-Pape since 2006, and as a 40-year collector, he finally feels his 2014 TOR Palisades Vineyard Grenache is there. “This is very simply the best Grenache we have yet released,” he told us. Mark Bright, the Wine Director for Michelin-3-starred Saison loves Grenache and snagged a generous allocation from Tor for The Angler—considered San Francisco’s hottest new opening of the year. That leaves about 45 cases in the world. Balancing red-fruit opulence with vibrancy and thick, chewy tannins—it is a superb achievement. If you’ve experienced some of the world’s finest Grenache wines—those from Châteauneuf, Priorat, and the choice examples from our own California backyard—you know the rich, rounded complexity the variety brings to your glass is unlike anything else.

Culled from a single block of a historic Calistoga vineyard in what Wine Spectator called Northern California's “dream vintage," TOR’s tiny production of Palisades Vineyard Grenache is a remarkable feat. Offered to TOR’s coveted subscriber list, a chunk to The Angler, and now to Wine Access clients—currently available for $60 per bottle from the winery, you get it at 33% off—just $39.99 each on four bottles or more.

A 27-year veteran of Beringer, Kenward has become an expert at identifying potential in top vineyards. This is his inaugural release off Palisades Vineyards, a famous Calistoga site whose history dates back to the moonshine-soaked days of early Prohibition. A source of fruit for Stag’s Leap and cult producer Robert Biale, many consider it to be the premier spot for Petite Sirah; Vinous’s Antonio Galloni has called it a “Grand Cru” site. The conditions also lend themselves beautifully to the cultivation of Grenache.

Situated in its own small valley in northeast Napa, Palisades Vineyard experiences daily winds that cleanse and refresh the vines. The extremely shallow, poor soils lend tremendous depth and concentration, further amplified by late season breezes that dry the grapes slightly. In 2014, those characteristics help this wine achieve its New World Châteauneuf-du-Pape opulence, layering on plum, black raspberry, dried strawberry, and a light dusting of cocoa. With its intense fruit and coiled energy, this is an unmistakable product of Palisades Vineyard terroir and an exceptional effort from TOR. Stake your claim while our limited allocation lasts.