Winemaker Chris Eberle’s new project pokes fun at the east side west side debate in Paso Robles on the outside of the bottle while putting serious wine on the inside. For this effort, named for his daughter, he sources the far western reaches of the appellation –Stolo Vineyard near the coastal town of Cambria — and pulls out an unexpected cool climate beauty. Tart cherry and cranberry fruit are complemented by notes of earth and soft spice, and some time in once used oak rounds out the texture without sacrificing brightness. Paso Pinot? There aren’t many, but this is a clear success. And – extra kudos for low alcohol. Give it a try with roast chicken, grilled halibut or mild cheeses.
Détente Wines, Paso Robles (Central Coast, California) Pinot Noir 2018
By Rich Cook