Synopsis, Our Opinion: A “Not Bad” California Rhone blend.
Producer/Winery: Tablas Creek Vineyard; Paso Robles, California.
Grape Variety: Southern Rhone blend – 39% Mourvedre, 29% Grenache, 18% Syrah, 11% Counoise and 3% Tannat.
Geographic Appellation,, Region, Country: Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California.
Vintage: 2015
Price: $40.00 (with a Tablas Creek club discount)
Purchased From: Tablas Creek Vineyard tasting room; Paso Robles, California.
Paired With: Venison meatloaf with Madeira sauce, rosemary roasted potatoes and asparagus.
Tasting:
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Opened one hour before drinking. Clear, ruby-purple color with a pale red tinted rim. VERY SLIGHT earthy dark fruit aromas. Slightly sharp mouthfeel, medium-full body and a 100- grit texture. Potent blackberry, plum and blueberry flavors set in a background of sage. Brisk acidity, grippy tannins and an explosive finish that was overflowing with spice, fennel and fruit jam. This wine was not very approachable and it appeared to need more time in the bottle and/or lots of decanting. We were a little disappointed by the feeble bouquet, especially with 29% Granach in the blend, but it did improve and by the last pour there were slight whips of heavy floral and dried grass. Very good paired with the venison and Madeira sauce. We called it a “Not Bad” California Rhone blend.
Photo from Tablas Creek Vineyard.
See also: Other Tablas Creek Vineyard wines we have reviewed.
Alcohol Content: 13%
Closure: 45mm Natural cork.
UPC Code: Not available.
Imported by: Not applicable.