Paso Robles Cabernet can sometimes go to the dark side, where ultra-ripe flavors and the sensation of heat from high alcohol levels dominate. The Paso Cab from Vina Robles, on the other hand, exhibits plenty of flavor, density and palate weight without even getting close to the dark side. This vintage is beautifully balanced, complex and cries out for a grilled steak. It shows layered black-fruit flavors, a hint of spice, and just the right touch of oak. Only 13.3 percent alcohol by volume, which is very low in general but especially low for the Paso region.
Vina Robles, Paso Robles (Central Coast) Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
By Robert Whitley