2008 Sticks and Stones

One of my favorites among the 2008s is the Sticks and Stones, a blend of 57% Grenache, 29% Mourvedre, and 14% Syrah, (which sounds like a Chateauneuf du Pape). Moreover, tipping the scales at 15.8% alcohol (and not a bit of it showing), this wine has a subtle resemblance to the great Chateau Rayas. Kirsch liqueur, dark raspberries, loamy soil notes, lavender, and spice box are all present in this medium to full-bodied wine, which is extraordinarily elegant, focused, and pure. A delicious wine with good acidity, this is a sensational red from Paso Robles, and a tribute to the blending skills of Matt Trevisan. It should drink well for 5-7 years. This is one of my favorite wineries in the Central Coast. The brain trust behind it is the one and only Matt Trevisan, who has moved into a state-of-the-art winery and barrel-aging facility. Additionally, he is just beginning to get some fruit off the first plantings in the 18-acre estate vineyard. Production is up to about 3,800 to 4,000 cases, although like everyone else in the Central Coast region, yields have been very small in 2007, 2008, and 2009. 2008 has turned out very well for Trevisan, but the yields were extremely small. Tel. (805) 227-0797; Fax (805) 227-4868