Grenache leads the charge in some of the world’s absolute best wines. Chateau Rayas, Sine Qua Non, Torbreck. The list goes on.

And for some reason, you probably don’t have much in your stash. Craziness! It’s insanely affordable and delivers so much deliciously ripe fruit.

Robert Parker knows what’s up:

“Grenache has basically been disregarded for the last century. I find myself buying more and more Grenache based wines as I get older”

If we could pour one drop of this in your mouth, you’d buy it. 1000% fact – bank on it. It’s certainly not an extracted, ultra rich fruit bomb like SQN but the purity of fruit is undeniable.

Wait…we didn’t mention the 92 points? And the price? SEVENTEEN dollars. You can’t even get a 2x4 for the price these days.

Winemaker Chris Pittenger happens to be the genius behind this highly explosive fruit bomb, with stints at Marcassin, Williams-Selyem, Robert Biale, and Turley! Which makes him an invincible superhero of sorts. Untouchable reputation, undeniable pedigree, unquestionable mastery.

Skinner too is a winner, often seen at the Wine & Spirits Top-100 as the hip, family-run operation up in the Sierra Foothills. The story goes… Kevin Skinner and his wife randomly stumbled upon an epic piece of family history on their way to Lake Tahoe. After a little research, Kevin’s father Mike traced Skinner Winery to his great, great, great grandpa! They went all in and purchased the property with one purpose in mind - reviving the legacy.

Boy did they do that. The deep ruby color exudes velvety flame-red reflections. The nose is pure red fruit perfume, strawberry compote mingling with cool raspberries and a sprig of spearmint. Then comes the first sip, with a mouthful of silky-smooth tannins rushing over the palate while a subtle, spicy earthiness captivates in the backdrop. Gobs of red ripe plums, juicy cranberry surmount to a red velvet cake nuanced finish. This is possibly the food-friendliest red we’ve ever come across at such an affordable price.

Again, 92 points, under $20. You need this happy little fruit bomb in your life. Even if you don’t know it yet…get a few bottles and thank us later. Don’t make us drink it all, because we will.

92 Points – Wine & Spirits

“This wine comes across as light and brisk, with a texture that’s just generous enough to mellow the cool spiciness and floral strawberry flavors. Fresh and pretty, it’s a lovely match for chicken liver mousse or most anything on a charcuterie plate.”