Pear Valley, Paso Robles (California) Tempranillo 2016

 This vineyard and winemaking team managed to really get Tempranillo right in this rendition from Paso Robles.  The wine shows deep color, expressive aromas and flavors of dark cherries and berries, and prominent but proportional accents from oak of spices and toast that recall Spanish forerunners while still leaving center stage for the ripe California fruit.  Medium-plus body will make this very versatile at the table, but the wine punches above its weight, so don’t be afraid to pair this with grilled lamb chops, which is just what a Spaniard would advise.  A Double Gold Award Winner at the 2020 Toast of the Coast International Wine Competition.