Twisted Sister (Calcareous Vineyard), Paso Robles (California) 2010

A blend of 69% Syrah, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Zinfandel, this is a bit puzzling at first glance because it seems to be a second label wine from the producer, yet priced at $20.  When tasted, however, its excellent quality is immediately apparent, and when the label turns out to be the second level from Calcareous Vineyard, a truly exceptional producer, everything starts to make sense.  The wine shows plenty of weight and intensity, with notable oak that nevertheless is easily counterbalanced by the energy of the fruit.  Very impressive for pairing with serious grilled red meat or aged cheeses.  Platinum award winner at the 2013 San Diego International Wine Competition.