2015 Epoch Tempranillo
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Tasting notes
I suspect the finest vintage to date, the 2015 Tempranillo shows a more elegant, seamless style that’s reminiscent of some of the great Tempranillo releases from Spain. Tons of black fruits, charcoal, charred meats, and graphite notes all give way to a full-bodied red that has a weightless, seamless texture, building tannins, and a blockbuster finish. I haven’t had a truly aged Tempranillo from California, so I hate to push too hard on the aging curve (especially when it’s this good already), but I suspect this will have over two decade of longevity. Superstar winemaker Jordan Fiorentini continues to keep Epoch Estate near the top of the peak in Paso Robles, and these latest 2015s and 2016s are some of the finest wines I’ve tasted from her. These are classic Paso Robles Rhône blends that mix the best of California sun and richness with a sense of purity, elegance, and balance. Don’t miss them!
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
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The 2015 Tempranillo was the one wine in the Epoch portfolio that I struggled to understand. Perhaps it was just having a bad day. Offering up notions of red fruit and dried herbs, it's firm, structural and dry, seemingly somewhat compact and tannic. I'll be curious to see how it evolves.