2010 Tablas Creek Grenache
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Tasting notes
Leading off the 2010s and a superb Grenache that’s overflowing with sweet red and black berry fruit, spice, underbrush, new saddle leather and hints of spring flowers on the nose, the 2010 Grenache is medium to full-bodied, gorgeously textured and possesses a rich, full mid-palate that carries into a structured, lengthy finish. Count me a fan. This is easily the best vintage of this cuvee to date. It will benefit from another year or two in the cellar and have upwards of 10-12 years of ultimate longevity. Drink 2015-2022. Certainly a reference point for Paso Robles, Tablas Creek continues to produce wines in a restrained, age-worthy and savory style that sets them apart. Both 2010 and 2011 are strong here, with the 2010s showing additional depth and concentration and the 2011s showing pretty, elegant profiles. I suspect the 2011s will be on faster evolutionary tracks, but given their balance, they could surprise in the cellar. In addition to their current releases, I was able to do short verticals of their Esprit de Beaucastel (which is now called Esprit de Tablas) and Panoplie. To say I came away impressed would be an understatement. Tel. (805) 237-1231; www.tablascreek.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Lurid ruby-red. Powerful aromas of raspberry, cherry compote, gingerbread and white pepper. Fleshy but focused, offering sappy red and dark berry flavors and suave floral and Asian spice qualities. This supple, seamless grenache finishes with very good clarity, molten tannins and lingering sweetness.
The 2010 Grenache is gorgeous. A gentle hint of spices adds complexity to this beautifully delineated, varietally expressive Grenache. Layers of flavor build to a rich finish supported by vibrant acidity. The tannins are evident, yet very nicely balanced. This is yet another terrific, compelling wine from Tablas Creek.
Also tasted as a barrel sample, the 2010 Tablas Creek Grenache shows textbook Grenache flair and looks to be outstanding. Deep, mineral-driven, and loaded with spice, licorice, and floral notes, this beautiful 2010 shows the energy and freshness of the vintage, yet also has solid depth, beautiful fruit, and ripe tannin that frames the finish. It should benefit from a handful of years in the cellar, and drink well through 2018.