Weisinger Family Winery, Rogue Valley (Oregon) Tempranillo 2021

 One of the early champions of Tempranillo on the West Coast, Eric Weisinger draws from the high elevation (2235 feet) estate vineyard to produce remarkable renditions even in warm vintages like 2021.  Despite a few heat spikes in June, the fruit was harvested in mid-September at 24.5 Brix.  After giving the wine several days of extended maceration, he then aged this Tempranillo 18 months in French oak, 30% new.  The result is a wine with an aroma of ripe plum and blackberry along with sandalwood and a dash of oak spice.  On the palate, it delivers concentrated yet lively red fruit flavors and a hint of sage leading to a long finish.  Both the oak and soft tannins remain in the background to provide structure and a pleasing finish.  It drinks well now but can be cellared.