Region and Vineyards
Tablas Creek is located in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles, a region renowned for its limestone-rich soils and Mediterranean climate, ideal for Rhône varietals. The estate’s certified organic and biodynamic practices emphasize sustainability, enhancing the expression of terroir in the wines.
The 2019 growing season began with substantial winter rainfall, ensuring excellent soil moisture. A cooler-than-average early summer delayed flowering, allowing for gradual ripening and flavor development. Warm but not overly hot weather in July accelerated the ripening of late-ripening varieties, producing fruit with remarkable intensity and balance. The compressed harvest was conducted under ideal conditions, resulting in a vintage that displays concentration, freshness, and vibrant acidity.
Winemaking
The 2019 Esprit de Tablas is an intricate blend of 39% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache, 21% Syrah, and 10% Counoise. Each varietal contributes to the wine’s character:
- Mourvèdre provides dark red fruit, earthy notes, and mid-palate richness.
- Grenache adds forward fruit, lushness, and approachability.
- Syrah enhances the wine with mineral notes, aromatic depth, and structural tannins.
- Counoise delivers brambly spice and bright acidity.
The grapes were fermented with native yeasts in a combination of wooden upright fermenters, open-top tanks, and stainless steel fermenters. After pressing, the wines underwent malolactic fermentation, followed by a year-long ageing period in foudres for integration and refinement. The blend was assembled in June 2020 and bottled in July 2021, resting further to achieve a seamless expression.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby, reflecting its concentration and complexity.
- Aroma: Intense aromas of spiced plum, sarsaparilla, loamy earth, and new leather.
- Palate: A rich, mouth-coating texture with flavors of black cherry, teriyaki marinade, baker’s chocolate, and a hint of iron minerality. The tannins are firm yet polished, leading to a long, savory finish with lingering notes of plum skin and roasted meats.
Did You Know?
Tablas Creek’s vines originate from cuttings at Château de Beaucastel, one of the Rhône Valley’s most celebrated estates, ensuring authentic Rhône character and exceptional quality in their wines.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Navarin d’Agneau (Lamb Stew): The wine’s earthy richness complements the stew’s robust flavors and tender lamb.
- Magret de Canard (Duck Breast): The dark fruit and spice in the wine enhance the dish’s richness.
- Boeuf Bourguignon: The wine’s structure and minerality balance the stew’s hearty, savory components.
- Beef Stir-Fry with Asian Spices: The wine’s vibrant acidity and dark fruit complement the bold, umami-rich flavors.
