# Chill Red Grenache (2023)

- **Producer:** Companion Wine Co.
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €8
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, strawberry, nutmeg, cherry

## About this wine

Companion Wine Co. Chill Red Grenache 2023 is a 100% Grenache from the Arroyo Seco sub-region of California's Central Coast. Founded by Ryan Stirm, Companion Wine Co. focuses on natural, terroir-driven wines made from organically farmed grapes with minimal intervention. The grapes for this wine come from the Zabala Vineyard, known for its granite-rich soils on the Arroyo Seco river terrace. The wine is distinguished by its 'Chill Red' designation, indicating it is intended to be served at a cooler temperature, and its packaging in cans, promoting accessibility and casual enjoyment. The 2023 vintage was hand-harvested on September 30th.

## Interesting facts

- Made from 100% Grenache grapes.
- Grapes grown in historic Zabala Vineyard, farmed for generations.
- Wine is packaged in cans for convenience.
- Designed to be served chilled.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity and soft tannins make it versatile. Its fruit-forward profile complements lighter proteins and vegetarian dishes, while the subtle spice notes can stand up to gentle heat. The chilled serving temperature enhances its refreshing qualities, making it ideal for lighter fare and warmer weather occasions.

## Wine making process

The Companion Wine Co. Chill Red Grenache 2023 is produced using a blend of winemaking techniques. For the 2023 vintage, 50% of the Grenache grapes were fermented whole cluster and 50% were destemmed. The wine underwent a three-week fermentation and maceration with daily pump-overs, followed by pressing. It was then aged in old oak barrels. The wine is lightly filtered, with a small addition of sulfur for stabilization. The producer emphasizes the use of organically farmed grapes and minimal intervention winemaking. The wine is packaged in cans.