In the Northern Rhône, Syrah is the dominant red wine-grape variety in such well-known appellations as Côte Rôtie and Hermitage. In Southern Rhône, it is Grenache Noir that dominates the reds, in famous appellations like Châteauneuf-du-Pape. When yields are restricted and the microclimate is warm, this variety produces concentrated wines with a core of sweet fruit suggesting strawberry. Grenache wines, however, tend to be lightly colored and soft, consequently producers, including Navarro, blend in other grape varieties; Syrah and Mourvèdre are the two most frequently used with Grenache, the former adding tannins and the latter structure and fragrance. The grapes were fermented in open-top bins so that we could easily and gently shove the skins back into the fermenting must several times a day. After aging ten months in oak barrels, a series of staff tastings resulted in a wine exhibiting flavors hinting of strawberry, rhubarb, currant and cedar. Gold Medal winner. Best of Class.