Le Cuvier, Paso Robles (Central Coast, California) Mourvedre 2013

 An earth-tone driven Mourvedre, with a pretty mix of damp and dry elements leading a layered procession that includes deep red fruit and soft fall spice, balanced oak toast and a burst of ripe cherry in the long zesty finish.  It’s a much lighter extraction than is typical for Central Coast examples, and one worth imitating.  I’d go the poultry route here — a roast chicken with a crisp herb encrusted skin sounds about right.