Ridge Vineyards Grenache Blanc, Paso Robles (2023)
Ridge is one of California's most respected wineries, famous for its Monte Bello Cabernet and its old-vine Zinfandels. White wine is the rare exception - which makes this Grenache Blanc a genuine discovery, even for people who know the name.
It comes from three vineyards on the cooler, limestone-rich west side of Paso Robles, where the chalky soils give white wines real freshness and drive. Grenache Blanc leads, with a little Picpoul and Roussanne adding lift and texture. Ridge makes it the same careful, low-intervention way it makes its reds: gently pressed, fermented with natural yeasts, then rested for several months in a mix of older oak and concrete to build texture without adding oaky flavour.
The result is crisp and mineral but not lean - white peach, pear and citrus with a savoury, stony edge and a long, mouth-watering finish. A serious white that still goes down easily. Serve well chilled.
The 2023 Vintage
The Fulham Wine Co Take