Big and ripe, yet quite balanced, this Rhone red is enjoyable for its briary blackberries, plums, and mineral aromas highlighted with tasty nuances of spice and game. It’s still young but so drinkable; it’s just the ticket for leg of lamb, tri-tip, or grilled quail. Critic Robert M. Parker, Jr. of The Wine Advocate rated this 92 points and it’s still available, but not for long. Available in local restaurants or at the Paso Robles tasting room, it’s $55 retail, and well worth it.
This article appears in Dec 10-17, 2009.