Ridge Grenache Blanc 2023

The Land

Ridge Grenache Blanc 2023 comes from western Paso Robles, where Pacific influence and limestone-driven hill country give Rhône whites noticeably more restraint than you’d expect from Paso. Ridge sources primarily from Fossil Creek and Adelaida Vineyard, with a small portion from Halter Ranch—sites known for fractured limestone with mixed sedimentary material that naturally preserves brightness and a stony, saline edge. These cooler west-side pockets help Grenache Blanc hold onto lift and definition, keeping the wine focused rather than simply ripe.

The Wine

This is a Grenache Blanc–led blend supported by small amounts of Picpoul and Roussanne, built to stay energetic instead of broad or oily. The fruit is whole-cluster pressed, then fermented with native yeasts, with a secondary fermentation allowed to run naturally to build texture while keeping the wine clean and integrated. Elevage typically balances clarity with nuance: stainless steel to keep lift and precision, with a measured portion in older oak and a small amphora component for subtle shape, followed by time on lees to broaden the mid-palate without dulling the finish. Expect pear and citrus tones, a touch of floral lift, and a distinctly savory, wet-stone note that keeps it taut and food-ready.

The People

Ridge’s identity has always been site-first and disciplined—lean winemaking, transparent élevage, and a strong preference for expression over polish. That philosophy translates naturally to their Rhône white program in Paso Robles, where the goal is not to “make it taste like Ridge,” but to let limestone, coastal influence, and thoughtful picking decisions set the tone. Grenache Blanc has been part of Ridge’s Paso lineup since 2018, and the blending across key west-side sites reflects a pragmatic approach: combine complementary parcels to capture both generosity and tension in the same bottle. The result is a modern California white with real structure and purpose—fresh, textured, and built to drink beautifully at the table.

Food pairing

Pan-roasted halibut over potato & celery root purée with lemon chive beurre blanc, and sautéed spinach with sliced garlic.

This leans into Ridge Grenache Blanc’s citrus lift and stony, saline edge (lemon chive beurre blanc), while the wine’s subtle rounces texture can handle the sauce and the silky purée without losing definition. Halibut keeps the pairing clean and precise, and the garlicky spinach adds a savory green note that pulls out the wine’s understated herbal side. Elevated, satisfying, and restaurant worthy but at home!