“Beaugravier” (pronounced “bow–grav–e-air”) means beautiful gravel in French. Years ago we spent many weeks in the Cote du Rhone studying the wines and vines. We worked with many winegrowers learning their methods, eating their foods and laughing with their families. The Beaugravier is the result of these times and loves. This wine is a blend of Syrah resting upon a foundation of Grenache Noir – the primary grape of the Cote du Rhone. When grown and experienced with elegance rather than power in mind, this combination is sublime at table. We love the “candy apple” and “cherry” of the Grenache carried by Syrah when in the company of just about every red meat, particularly lamb.

According to Doug, "For 25 years I have suspected that Grenache would love the cool Monterey growing region, especially our Ventana Vineyard. I am of the opinion that in cool climates Grenache expresses a beautiful elegance and range of flavors that can be lost in hotter climates. Our production of Beaugravier will always be of a modest amount. In cool or ugly cold springs the Grenache has a nasty habit of 'blasting off" its crop - whether in France or here at our vineyard. We just have to be prepared to accept crop shortages in some years."

At Ventana we control the vigor of the vines used to make Beaugravier. Controlling the vigor controls the size of each berry which then has a better skin to juice ratio resulting in richer color (deep ruby red) and more intense flavors of black cherry, black currant and candy apple. It is full bodied with lush mouth-feel and a lingering finish. The 2001 Beaugravier is very drinkable now, but has the structure and balance for cellaring.