Ancient Peaks, Santa Margarita Ranch – Paso Robles (Central Coast, California) “Oyster Ridge” 2020 ($60)

This is a Bordeaux blend made from vines only grown on calcium-rich soils. In 2020, over a dozen blocks were separately harvested and went into the final blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, and 3% of both Merlot and Malbec. Like a typical Bordeaux, the percentages vary each vintage and an earlier Oyster Ridge had only 51% Cabernet. Once assembled, this blend was aged for 23 months in 75% new French oak. The aroma displays plum and black cherry fruit along with a touch of saddle leather and a subtle floral note. Medium bodied, firm, and focused, it stands apart from the Paso crowd as a more nuanced wine. With a hint of toasted oak and gentle tannins providing a solid framework, it should age well.
93 Norm Roby