98-Point "Unforgettable" and Unique Cali Red

2022 A Tribute to Grace "Hofer Vineyard" Cucamonga Valley Grenache ($39.95)

98 points Vinous: "The 2022 Grenache Hofer Vineyard hails from an own-rooted, head-trained vineyard just outside of Los Angeles, planted in 1919. Spice, leather, dried figs, dried herbs and menthol are so evocative. In this vintage, it almost reminds me of a Mission wine. This really is like tasting a wine from another era, one from many decades prior. For some readers, this style will be too eccentric. For those who want to explore California's past, this is absolutely required drinking. It's an unforgettable winea time capsule of sorts. (AG)" (08/2024)

Ryan Woodhouse | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 27, 2024

Talk about a unicorn wine. This bottling from A Tribute to Grace is one of the most interesting and unique wines you'll find anywhere. Firstly, the historic Hofer Ranch, founded in 1882, is now literally in the middle of Ontario International Airport. This 6 acre parcel of ancient vines, planted over 100 years ago, is now surrounded by runways, aircraft hangers and warehouses. These gnarled old vines have resisted urbanization and development. Historic photos of the vineyard show once unobstructed views to the snowcapped San Gabriel Mountains just 20 miles away. The own-rooted, head-trained vines grow in 35 feet or pure sand soils. They have been farmed organically since inception. Owner/winemaker Angela Osborne is dedicated to Grenache and is perhaps unrivalled in the new world as a master of the varietal.

The Hofer Grenache is made in a elegant style with incredible freshness and perfume. Translucent in the glass, the wine is redolent with ripe raspberry, pomegranate, baking spices, hints of mint, dried alpine herbs, incense. Vibrant and dynamic on the palate with so much freshness and presence on the palate despite its modest extract. The light color of the wine certainly doesn't translate into light flavors, there's a lot of intensity packed in here. Crystalline acidity, crunchy red berries, woodsy spices linger on the palate. Such a great bottle that is full of character and charm. Works really well served at a nice cool, cellar temperature. This is an early contender for my Thanksgiving table this year...but with that monster 98-point score from Antonio Galloni at Vinous Media, this will go fast. Limited availability.

Scott Beckerley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 19, 2024

This is a brilliantly clean and spicy Grenache with loads of crispy and bright red fruits. There are minerals, spice and savory flavors that only heighten the whole experience. Compare this to any French Rhone in this price range.