Grenache Blanc

Molly is a former biology geek who went full-time wine nerd. A born and raised Northern California baby, she planted her roots in Sonoma county to kick off her winemaking career alongside iconic mentors. After two kids and 15 years in the biz, she’s now doing big things for small batch wine. Her third child—Proxy Wines—is her playground to craft crisp wines for modern times using traditional French varieties.

You're probably familiar with its red cousin, Grenache, but don't overlook this lesser-known white. Orgianted in Spain but more commonly found today in the Rhone region of France, Grenache Blanc can be described in one word: Intense. Aromas, body, alcohol content - this wine's got it all.

Happiest in cooler climates, most Grenache Blanc in California is grown mid-coast. These grapes come from a coveted region near Monterey, 1,500 ft. in elevation, called Chalone. Its limestone soils and swings in daily temps result in a wine that's beautifully balanced with striking minerality.

The design is a nod to her winery’s “X” logo. The two sides of the can reflect each other—symbolizing the duality of Molly’s life as a winemaker and mother.

Try it paired with Moroccan dishes, prosciutto and melon, or grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream.

The Michaud Vineyard is at 1500 ft of elevation within the almost moonscape-like high desert of the Chalone AVA. During the growing season, temperature fluctuations between the daily highs and lows are regularly 40-60F. With the Monterey Bay only 35 miles away, growing conditions are heavily marine influenced, making for slow ripening grapes which create wines with distinct minerality and nuance.

The grapes for the 2021 Grenache Blanc were hand harvested and whole cluster pressed, then fermented slow and cold to dryness. The resulting wine is bright with white peach and passion fruit, and a compelling wet stone-like minerality that complements the assertive fruit.