2012 Big Basin Grenache/Syrah/Mourvèdre Paderewski Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2012 GSM Paderewski Vineyard is more savory and rustic than past vintages, with notions of blackberry, black raspberry, chalky minerality, menthol and underbrush giving way to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated, yet chewy feel on the palate. Made from 50% Grenache, 31% Syrah and 19% Mourvedre, give it a year in the cellar and enjoy bottles over the following 5-6 years. Located high up in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Big Basin Vineyards is run by Bradley Brown. He releases numerous estate wines, yet also makes a number of wines from other top vineyards in the Central Coast. These 2011s show the freshness and focus of the cooler vintage, and his 2012s offer beautiful purity, with more fruit forward profiles. Tel. (408) 564-7346; www.bigbasinvineyards.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2012 GSM Paderewski Vineyard captures the essence of Paso in its pliant, expressive personality. Dark red cherry, plum, mint, smoke and leather flesh out in an intense, distinctive wine loaded with class. Sadly, this is Big Basin's last vintage working with Paderewski fruit.
(50% grenache, 31% syrah and 19% mourvedre; 15% alcohol): Saturated ruby. Heady, exotic scents of red berry preserves, incense, lavender and smoky Indian spices, with a hint of white pepper emerging with air. Juicy and expansive on the palate, offering sweet, mineral-tinged black raspberry and cherry flavors and a touch of bitter chocolate. A touch of olive gives away the syrah component on the broad, sappy, very persistent finish. For such a powerful wine this shows surprising vivacity.