Kings Carey Spear Vineyard Grenache 2019

Kings Carey Wines is the personal project of James Sparks, who launched the label in 2014 to explore small-lot, site-driven expressions of Rhône and other Mediterranean varieties along California’s Central Coast. Sourcing from organically farmed vineyards and employing minimal intervention, native fermentation, neutral oak ageing, plus no fining or filtering, Sparks creates wines that are honest reflections of their origin. The Spear Vineyard site, located just ten miles from the Pacific, benefits from constant ocean breezes and a long, cool growing season, allowing Grenache to ripen slowly and retain its natural acidity.

The Spear Vineyard Grenache 2019 is a beautifully pure and expressive example of California Grenache, showcasing the elegance and restraint that define the best wines from the Sta. Rita Hills. Winemaker James Sparks (also of Liquid Farm fame) approaches Grenache with a Burgundian sensibility, focusing on transparency, and the natural vibrancy of fruit.

The wine opens with perfumed aromas of wild strawberry, blood orange, rose petal, and white pepper, layered with hints of dried herbs, crushed stone, and warm earth. On the palate, it’s silky yet energetic, with fine-grained tannins and a lifted acidity that frames flavours of raspberry coulis, red cherry, and pomegranate. There’s a lovely savoury backbone, notes of thyme and garrigue, giving depth to the wine’s otherwise graceful and airy texture. The finish is long, pure, and subtly spiced, leaving a mineral impression that speaks to the vineyard’s cool-climate, sandy soils .Pair with grilled quail, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, or mushroom and thyme risotto