What once grew pears now grows Grenache, Syrah, Tempranillo, Chardonnay and Viognier in the name of Jaxon Vineyards. With diligent research put into the land—referencing the latitude, the soil and the microclimate of Fern Valley in the Rogue Valley—Jamie and Katherine McCleary decided to plant classic varieties of France’s Rhône Valley and of Spain’s Rioja region. The 2011 Rogue Valley Grenache is roasty with dark stone fruit and bramble berries with inherent spice and earth. The palate, however, is not as rambunctious as the nose, with modest spice and mineral-rich notes, polished red fruit flavors and restrained acidity. With only 48 cases produced, this is going, going and soon-to-be gone.
