2023 Keplinger Opalus Grenache Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Barbara County 6pk 6x750ml

Based on 100% Grenache from the Hammel block on the northwest side of the Bien Nacido Vineyard, the 2023 Grenache Opalus comes from head-trained bush vines rooted in a sand shelf and was aged 17 months in 600-liter demi-muids, 25% of which were new. Red plums, raspberries, sappy minty herbs, bouquet garni, and savory pepper all shine here, and it's medium-bodied, with a pure, focused, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's another brilliant wine from Keplinger that does everything right. I like it today, yet it's going to benefit from a year or two of bottle age and keep through 2040. Drink 2025-2040. ~ 95 Jeb Dunnuck

This Grenache comes from head-trained bush vines planted on sandy soils at a later-ripening site. The wine is brightly alive with pure cherry and cranberry fruit, alongside Rooibos tea notes and hints of red liquorice drifting from the glass. On the palate, it is layered with super-fine, compact, tightly knit tannins that feel like superfine sand, carrying through to a chalky mineral finish. There’s a pop of white pepper and tangerine oil on the nose that reappears on the long finish. Just lovely. ~ 95 Decanter

The 2023 Opalus is 100% Grenache from Bien Nacido. Aromatic, deep and vibrant, the 2023 is endowed with serious class and personality. Tea leaves, dried fruit, crushed flowers and exotic red fruits lend tons of character. The 2023 offers unreal complexity and character from start to finish. ~ 94 Vinous Media