This past Saturday, we gathered with a friend and I grabbed a bottle from our wine rack on the way out the door. I knew this was going to be a good wine, as I had favorable memories of it from the El Dorado Passport event in April.

One of the best wines I've had this year: @hollyshill 2011 Grenache Noir Estate. pic.twitter.com/aHOKEHvclR

— WineDavid (@WineDavid) August 17, 2014

What I wasn’t prepared for was just how good the Holly’s Hill 2011 Estate Granache Noir was going to be. I really loved this wine. It had all of the characteristics of a good Granache, only more so. Conversation slowed and quickly turned to just how good this wine was as we each got around to sipping what was now in our glasses. This is one of the best wines I’ve had this year. It stands out for it’s utterly Granache quality, and it’s perfect balance. That it is a California wine from Gold Country should surprise no one.

I shouldn’t be surprised that Holly’s Hill has produced another great wine. I love their Patriarch blends. I loved their Counoise. They really have a handle on how to make Rhone varietals sing.

After singing it’s praises, I’m sorry to say that this wine is sold out. If you are one of the lucky ones who was able to snag a bottle or two (or more) of this wine, count yourself luck! I have one more bottle in our wine cellar. I may have to save it for just the right company.