It’s an ongoing mystery that domestic red Rhone-style blends are not more popular, particularly given the remarkable success of Tablas Creek. The Paso Robles winery has an impressive track record with the Rhone grapes, i.e., Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, etc. The epitome of each vintage for Tablas is typically its Esprit de Tables blend and the 2016 is a beauty. This vintage is heavy on the Mourvedre (46 percent) with Syrah, Grenache and Counoise in support roles. This brilliant wine exhibits exceptional fruit purity with notes of sweet red currant, plum and spice. A gentle savory note adds complexity. Ready to drink now but built to last, I wouldn’t hesitate to cellar this wine another five to eight years.
Tablas Creek Vineyard, Adelaida District, Paso Robles (California) 2016
By Robert Whitley