Padigan Wines, Rogue Valley (Oregon) Tempranillo 2021

 Coming from a difficult vintage, here is another example of why Tempranillo deserves to be better recognized.  From the estate vineyard, this Tempranillo was blended with 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Syrah.  All components were wild yeast fermented, and the blend was aged for 22 months in French and American oak.  Dealing with a warm, dry vintage, the winery thinned the crop and the result is this impressive, compact and complex rendition.  It leans toward dark fruit aromas led by blueberry with dried figs and black pepper.  Medium bodied with youthful fruit flavors, it has some oak spice and a solid structure supported by gentle tannins.  It finishes on a lingering note.