Central Coast Leader Continues Commitment to Sustainability with new Rosé and Red Blend
Monterey, CA, January 18, 2023 – Scheid Family Wines, one of the most established and acclaimed wine producers in the Central Coast of California, is excited to announce the national debut of Grandeur Wines. The new label was inspired by White Flower, the company’s first certified organic vineyard, and the symbiotic relationship of nature within its delicate ecosystem. The vineyard was planted thoughtfully around a majestic Blue Oak tree that houses a flourishing bee colony, as reflected by the symbol of a bee that adorns the front label. The Grandeur portfolio includes a Red Blend and Rosé that launch in January and February, respectively.
Certified by California Certified Organic Farmers, White Flower Vineyard is nestled against the southernmost foothills of the Santa Lucia Range in the Hames Valley AVA, an ideal locale where the organically farmed Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah grapes thrive and reach optimum ripeness each vintage. The national launch of the Grandeur label demonstrates Scheid Family Wines’ continued focus on long-term sustainability: with the harvest of 2023, the business is set to have over 500 certified organic acres, with most of the plantings dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. A small number of blocks of organically grown varietals like Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot will provide additional diversity for the future evolution of Grandeur and development of additional organic brands.
“Grandeur reflects Scheid Family Wines’ holistic approach to organic farming, wherein every vineyard has its own environment to nurture and manage”, says Heidi Scheid, Executive Vice President. “This brand has been a long time in the making and we’re thrilled to be meeting the needs of wine consumers who are searching for delicious organic wine options.”
Winemaking responsibilities are led by Casey Di Cesare, a veteran of the Scheid Family Wines team who has crafted a diverse lineup of award-winning Central Coast wines. Scheid Family Wines’ newest addition to the vinicultural team, Ellie Loustalot, brings additional creative energy to the brand as Assistant Winemaker.
“I’m thrilled by the results of our efforts with Grandeur and I’m excited with the beautiful fruit and wonderful flavors we’ve achieved,” notes Di Cesare. “Organic viticulture and low-intervention winemaking come with a set of challenges that have made us be very mindful in the vineyards and cellar. In the end, the quality and care are reflected in the glass.”
The Grandeur 2021 Red Blend (SRP $22.99) is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, picked at optimum ripeness in the early morning, then destemmed, crushed and fermented at warm temperatures using select organic yeast. To retain each variety’s character and add complexity, the wines were fermented separately, then aged on French oak for 10 months, before bringing the final blend together. The wine displays aromas of blackberry, elderberry and plum accented by hints of ripe fig and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with structured tannins and rich black fruit flavors that lead into a lingering sweet oak finish. A food-friendly wine, Grandeur Red Blend pairs well with smoky flavors of the grill and spice-inspired roasted dishes.
Meanwhile, the Grandeur 2022 Rosé (SRP $19.99) is 100% Petite Sirah, crafted from grapes that were hand-picked and whole-cluster pressed hours after harvesting, allowing for minimal color pickup. Fermentation was conducted with select organic yeast at cool temperatures in stainless steel to retain the bright fruit esters and floral aromas. The wine brings aromas of peach, pear and watermelon accented by wet stone minerality. On the palate, it is light- to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a lingering stone fruit finish. Grandeur Rosé pairs well with charcuterie, soft cheeses, veggie skewers and seafood dishes and is delightful on its own as an apéritif.
Grandeur wines are rolling out nationally and will be available at select retailers, including Whole Foods, Natural Grocers and Total Wine & More by early March. Grandeur wines may also be purchased online at grandeurwines.com. Follow along on Instagram @grandeurwines.
About Scheid Family Wines
Scheid Family Wines, a family-owned and operated wine company founded in 1972, is ranked among the top 20 largest wine producers in California. Based in Monterey County, Scheid is uniquely integrated to bring high quality estate grown wines to the marketplace from its sustainably certified vineyards and grower partners throughout the Central Coast. Scheid’s innovative, luxury-level winery is powered by 100% renewable wind energy generated by a 400-foot-tall wind turbine, which also supplies energy to many homes in the local community. The Scheid Family Wines globally distributed brand portfolio includes Scheid Vineyards, Sunny with a Chance of Flowers, VDR (Very Dark Red), Grandeur (made with organic grapes), Fog & Light, Metz Road, District 7, Ryder Estate, and HOXIE, a premium wine spritzer. Scheid Family Wines sells internationally to 26 countries and is one of the largest producers of nationally distributed exclusive brands.
Please visit www.scheidfamilywines.com for more information.