Tablas Creek Vineyard, Paso Robles (San Luis Obispo County, California) “Patelin de Tablas Blanc” 2023 ($28)

This has an unexpected freshness for a California / Rhône offering, likely thanks to what is already being touted as a great vintage coupled with experienced winemaking talent. As always, the aromatic development in a Tables Creek wine serves as a public service announcement, one that says “get ready for the delicious.” That’s just what’s going on here, with fresh Grenache Blanc in the lead, its fruit enhanced by the floral character of the Viognier next in the mix. It is also available in a 3-liter box for less than the cost of four bottles, and something worth considering. Contains 50% Grenache Blanc, 23% Viognier, 10% Roussanne, 8% Marsanne, 8% Vermentino and 1% Bourbolenc.
92 Rich Cook