One of my loves is white Rhone. I love the interplay between Grenache Blanc and Roussanne that is unlike anything else. The problem is both grapes can be a bit fickle and need near-perfect conditions to ripen fully, even in the south of France. 

Which is why I look for options from California every chance I get! Ripeness isn’t an issue...

and so long as the acidity is maintained, these wines offer a richness and sublime complexity that rival the best their French counterparts can offer…all at a fraction of the price.65% Grenache Blanc / 35% Roussanne. A favorite for the past couple of years, this wine goes from strength to strength. He co-ferments the grapes in neutral oak barrels, allowing the two to fully merge into a unified wine. The Grenache offers crisp acidity and Granny Smith apple notes, along with providing a core of minerality. The Roussanne teases with its tropical fruit flavors and aromas – always present, but never becoming flamboyant or extreme. It is this balance – the yin and the yang – of the wine that elevates it above the pack.

Of course, I typed this email earlier in the week, and just saw the review from Wine Advocate…  a conversation for a different day… I sell wine I believe it, regardless of review… but I have made a firm commitment to provide you all with as much information as possible. That is my job.

So, I’ll let you know that the wine received 90 pts from the Wine Advocate. Not a surprise, as this is the same score for the past 3 years… compare with similarly rated white Chateauneuf du Pape for $40 and up!

“We like to say that these two varietals complement each as well and Jennifer and Joey do. The Grenache Blanc and Roussane for this unique blend come from continuous blocks in the Camp 4 vineyard and were pressed together to neutral French oak barrels. The wine was then aged on the lees and bottled early (in January) to retain freshness and crisp acidity. The berries for this blend were intensely flavored due to low yields caused by frosts. The Grenache Blanc brims with steely minerality and bright notes of green apple that balance beautifully with the rich, tropical fruits and lush mouthfeel of the Roussanne. Pair this Blanc with spicy Thai dishes, fish dishes, or chilled shellfish. This complex wine is enjoyable now but should age well over the next 3 to 4 years.” Winery note

“Tensley’s only white wine, the elegant 2009 Camp 4 Blanc, is a blend of 65% Grenache Blanc and 35% Roussanne. Aromas of nectarines, quince, and white currants are followed by a medium-bodied white wine revealing fresh acids as well as a heady finish. Drink it over the next year.” WA