Category: Wine Blog/Reviews

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HALTER RANCH: A PERFECT LUNCH PLUS TASTING!

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 8

THE STORY

Halter Ranch was a perfect stop for our last day in Paso Robles: a delicious lunch plus a guided tasting. I was on a mission to try the latest vintage of their Block 22 Syrah. We were all serious about getting a good lunch, after skipping lunch the day before. On a covered, California room-styled patio, we were lucky to hit a break in the music so we could hear the server. IMHO, the wines paired very nicely with the Halter Ranch burger.

The Halter Ranch Burger

You can read my last post about Halter Ranch Vineyard here: And It’s a Wrap: Lunch Tasting at Halter Ranch.

THE WINERY

“Set along the westernmost boundaries of Paso Robles and surrounded by the wild Santa Lucia Mountain Range of California’s Central Coast, the Halter Ranch Estate is a 2,700-acre organic nature estate dedicated to land, art, and 100% organically farmed grapes. Envisioned by Swiss entrepreneur, philanthropist, and world-leading land conservationist Hansjörg Wyss, the estate is an homage to his mother, Alice Halter. It is a haven for the natural world to continue flourishing while it delivers exceptional, timeless wines.” (from their website)

THE WINES

I have 6 wines to present to you today from Halter Ranch. Winery notes come from their website or tasting room, unless otherwise indicated. As a general rule, I do not correct typos on winery websites. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2022 Halter Ranch Libelle Sparkling Rose, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 12.5% ABV, $65 (#1651) 51% Grenache, 49% Picpoul Blanc

Winery Notes: “Introducing the inaugural Libelle Sparkling Rosé, a stunning evolution of our beloved Libelle Sparkling Picpoul Blanc, now complemented with Grenache. The 2022 Libelle Sparkling Rosé showcases aromas of guava, strawberries, raspberries, and cream. The palate is crisp, fresh, and layered with pomegranate, tangerine, and grapefruit, followed by a complex finish of toasted almonds and vanilla.”

My Review: Ballet slipper pink with tiny bubbles. A yeasty nose is followed by a slightly sweet strawberry and red grapefruit palate with a lemony finish. August 2025

2022 Halter Ranch Cuvée Alice, Adelaida District, Paso Robles AVA, 14.5% ABV, $96 (#1652) 43% Grenache, 38% Syrah, 13% Mourvédre, 6% Tannat

Winery Notes: “This reserve blend honors Alice Halter, the mother of proprietor Hansjörg Wyss. The 2022 Cuvée Alice boasts bright aromas of cherry, watermelon, and floral characters including freesia and rose petals. The entry is crisp, flashy, and brimming with mouth watering flavors of currant, raspberry, and bramble fruits. Balanced freshness along with low tannin structure make this wine perfect for pairing with food.

My Review: Dark garnet in color. Plum, cassis and licorice on the nose. Big palate of dark fruit. Extremely tasty. August 2025

2022 Halter Ranch Block 22 Syrah, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.5% ABV, $92 (#1653)

Winery Notes: “Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, black tea, and caramel fill the glass of the 2022 Block 22 Syrah. The entry is soft, rich, and mouth-coating, layered with flavors of raspberry, olallieberry, and baking spices. The sumptuous midpalate segues into a finish with soft, integrated yet present tannins.”

My Review: Dark in the glass. Cassis, dark plum and brown sugar on the nose. Rich palate of super dark fruit saturating the palate. Reflective of a hot vintage – a bit over extracted. I like this wine but didn’t buy any this time. August 2025

2021 Halter Ranch Alicante Bouschet, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.1% ABV, $80 (#1654)

Winery Notes: “The 2021 Alicante Bouschet has aromas of baked plum, berry compote, boysenberry, and pie filling. The entry is deep, dark and blue, with flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and black currant. The palate is rich, intense, and layered with structure and tannins. Lay this one down for 5 years for its best presentation.”

My Review: Extremely dark in the glass. A fruity nose of dark plum, followed by cassis on the palate. At first it presented a little rough, but mellowed out. August 2025

2021 Halter Ranch Ancestor, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.6% ABV, $88 (#1655) 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Petit Verdot, 13% Malbec

Winery Notes: “The 2021 Ancestor exudes aromas of blackberry, blueberry, mineral, and slate, with a touch of chocolate. The entry is round and soft, bursting with flavors of blue and black fruits, cassis, and cocoa. The mid-palate transitions into a long, textured finish, layered with baking spices and soft, yet present tannins.”

My Review: Inky in the glass. Dark plum and blackberries on the nose. A fruitier palate of red and black fruits, with a leather and tobacco finish. August 2025

2021 Halter Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.3% ABV, $68 (#1656) 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec, 17% Petit Verdot

Winery Notes: “The 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon exudes aromas of raspberry, olallieberry, cinnamon, caramel, and toasted oak. The palate is soft and mouth-coating upon entry. Dark blue fruit flavors, including blueberry and boysenberry, are framed by elegant, integrated tannins on the finish.”

My Review: Purple in the glass. Dark plum and dark berries on the nose. Big smooth palate of chocolate and crushed berries. We really liked this wine and took some home! August 2025

THE TASTING ROOMS

“Explore the beautiful Halter Ranch tasting rooms. In each of these wine tasting locations, you’ll learn more about the wine-making process, take in beautiful views, and of course, taste some exceptional wines.

“Halter Ranch wines are ethically farmed, organically grown, and sustainably finished. We believe in working with the land we grow on, not just taking from it. We reject harmful monocultures and are committed to growing practices that are ethically responsible and free from additives and chemicals.”

Check out their tasting room locations here.

If you make it there, tell them Decanting Monterey sent you!

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

TABLAS CREEK: THE VISIONARIES WHO BROUGHT RHÔNE VARIETIES TO PASO ROBLES!

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 7

THE STORY

Today marks the last day of our hot, hot weekend in Paso Robles. Did I mention hot?  It had been over 100 degrees on our entire trip, but until now, we had been indoors. Today’s tasting was set in a lovely, terraced garden at Tablas Creek Vineyard. The outdoors tasting area was beautiful, with ample shade and even misters, if needed. We were there in the morning, so it was just lovely.  We decided to share tastings to try both the summer and red flights. It was a lot!

We were provided a history of the vineyard and launched into the wines.  They were delivered to our table with those handy wire carriers, which meant I did not get photos of the bottles.

You can read my only other post about Tablas Creek here: Tablas Creek: “Bringing the Rhône to Paso Robles”.

THE WINERY

“Tablas Creek is the realization of the combined efforts of two of the international wine community’s leading families: the Perrin family, proprietors of Château de Beaucastel, and the Haas family of Vineyard Brands. Equally owned and run by the two families, the partnership begun in 1987 remains today as ever, even as the next generation of Haas’ and Perrins have stepped into leadership roles over recent decades.”

You can read so much more here about Tablas Creek’s fascinating history and Robert Haas’ role as one of the visionaries and pioneers of bringing Rhône varietals to Paso Robles.

THE WINE

I have 11 wines (yikes!) to present to you today from Tablas Creek. Winery notes come from their website or tasting room, unless otherwise indicated. As a general rule, I do not correct typos on winery websites. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2024 Tablas Creek Grenache Blanc, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 13.5% ABV, $40 (#1640)

Winery Notes: “A pretty pithy nose, lightly tropical, with notes of cumquat and anise. The mouth is richly textured, but with great acids and flavors of caramel apple, salty minerals, and a little bite of green apple skin tannin on the finish. Classic Grenache Blanc, both charming and substantial.” 92 points – James Suckling

My Review: Medium yellow in color. Pear, grilled pineapple, and butter on the nose. Balance of acidity and minerality on the flavorful palate with a lingering finish. August 2025

2024 Tablas Creek Marsanne, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 12.5% ABV, $45 (#1641)

Winery Notes: “A pretty nose of cantaloupe, ginger, lemon meringue pie, and bubblegum. The mouth is lovely and gentle, with flavors of vanilla custard, ripe pear, salty rocks and baked golden delicious apple. The finish is lightly minty, with lingering flavors of apricot and crushed rock.” 93 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

My Review: Medium golden in the glass. Viscous with Apricot and honeysuckle on the nose. Medium palate of banana, melon, and lemon acidity. August 2025

2022 Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas Blanc, Adelaida District, Paso Robles AVA, 12.5% ABV, $60 (#1642)

Winery Notes: “A powerful nose of lanolin and honeycomb, lemongrass and orange blossom, like the world’s most luxurious antique furniture polish. The palate is lively, rich but still light on its feet, with flavors of vanilla custard, fresh apricot, citrus pith, marmalade, and green herbs. The finish leaves lingering notes of grilled pineapple and green herbs. Drink now to enjoy its freshness or let it age for up to two decades for deeper flavors of caramel and roasted nuts.” 95 points – James Suckling

My Review: Big nose of banana and melon and caramel. Tasty palate of banana and lemon custard finish. Mouth filling. Very soft and rich. Flavorful. My favorite of the whites. August 2025

2024 Tablas Creek Patelin de Tablas Rosé, Paso Robles, 13.5% ABV, $30 (#1643) 68% Grenache Noir, 28% Mourvèdre, 3% Vermentino, 1% Counoise

Winery Notes: “A pretty pale peach color. On the nose, expansive aromatics of peach, citrus blossom, crushed rock, and tarragon. The mouth is electric, with flavors of nectarine, watermelon rind, petrichor, and sweet spice. The wine has great tension, walking the line between an opulent nose and a fully dry palate with a vibrant line of acidity keeping your mouth watering through a long finish.” 93 points – Decanter

My Review: Pretty pale pink in the glass. Some sweetness balanced by lemon on the nose. Some jamminess on the palate wrapping with minerality and tannin to make this rose super interesting. August 2025

2023 Tablas Creek Counoise, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 12.5% ABV, $40 (#1644)

Winery Notes: “A vibrant garnet color, a shade darker than recent years. The nose shows brambly raspberry fruit with additional notes of rose hips, red licorice, and cola. The mouth is classic, with flavors of cranberry, cocoa powder, and wild strawberry, complete with fruit, leaves, and flowers. The long finish showcases a little burst of dusty tannins and leaves impressions of red fruit and flinty minerality. Enjoy it lightly chilled any time in the next four to six years.” 92 points – Vinous

My Review: Pale garnet. Chill like a white and serve. Pepper on the nose. A medium palate with a tannic peppery finish. August 2025

2024 Tablas Creek Alouette Grenache, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.5% ABV, $35 (#1645)

Winery Notes: “An appealingly juicy nose of wild strawberry and yellow roses, with a little minty lift. On the palate, like strawberry candy, but dry, with additional flavors of watermelon and sweet green herbs. Light-to-medium-bodied, with just a hint of tannin and refreshing acidity. It is delicious chilled.”

My Review: Pale translucent garnet, almost pink. Ripe strawberry on the nose, carrying over to the palate.

2023 Tablas Creek Grenache, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.5% ABV, $45 (#1646)

Winery Notes: “A pretty nose of red licorice, coffee bean, berry cobbler, black pepper, and soy, quite a bit deeper (and darker) than our 2022. On the palate, flavors of black cherry, baker’s chocolate, plum skin, and bramble thicket. The finish shows mouth-coating texture and some fairly substantial Grenache front-palate tannins, with lingering notes of red fruit and licorice.” 94 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate and James Suckling

My Review: Translucent tending toward pink in the glass. raspberry and peppermint the nose. A light style but tasty for a Grenache. August 2025

2023 Tablas Creek Côtes de Tablas, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 13.5% ABV, $40 (#1647) 66% Grenache Noir, 18% Syrah, 8% Counoise, 8% Mourvèdre

Winery Notes: “An expressive nose with both red fruit and darker elements, like raspberries rolled in cocoa powder, with additional notes of fresh fig, herbes de Provence, and a floral violet note. The mouth is pretty and has an appealing wildness, like salted wild strawberries, complete with the leaves, mint chocolate, clove, and a little loamy earth. The finish is gentler than the varietal Grenache at this stage, with refined tannins and a long, elegant finish.” 94 points – James Suckling

My Review: Red to pink in the glass. A slightly sweet nose. Leaves a sour finish in my palate. August 2025

2023 Tablas Creek En Gobelet, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.5% ABV, $52 (#1648) 49% Grenache Noir, 31% Mourvèdre, 14% Syrah, 3% Counoise, 3% Tannat   

Winery Notes: “A vibrant nose of cherry fruit leather, flourless chocolate cake, black licorice, and rose petals. The palate is luscious, with flavors of cassis and dark chocolate, teriyaki and blackberry. The finish shows chalky tannins, graphite-like minerality, and a lingering impression of salted plum skin.” 95 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

My Review: Rich, nice nose. A drinkable, smooth red. Sorry for the skimpy notes. I liked this wine. August 2025

2022 Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 13.5% ABV, $70 (#1649) 40% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache Noir, 22% Syrah, 4% Vaccarese, 3% Counoise, 3% Cinsault

Winery Notes: “A serious nose of pipe tobacco, both red and black currant, licorice, and a little minty lift. The mouth is on point with flavors of black raspberry, mint chocolate, meat drippings, and loamy earth. Deep and full but structured as well, with fine-grained tannins and a finish of sweet spice and dark red fruit.” 95 points – Wine Enthusiast

My Review: Raspberry and black cherry on the nose. Dark cherry on the smooth palate. Quite drinkable and delicious. Now we are getting to the style of wines I prefer. August 2025

2017 Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 14.5% ABV, $85 (#1650) 40% Mourvèdre, 35% Grenache Noir, 20% Syrah, 5% Counoise

Winery Notes: “A cool wintergreen minty note sets off deeper smoked meat, redcurrant, mocha, and juniper aromas. The mouth shows Grenache’s sweet fruit and licorice on that attack, then deepens into notes of black cherry, chocolate, and a chorizo-like meatiness, all with tremendous mouth-coating texture. The long finish, with lingering flavors of wood smoke, roasted meat, plum skin and crushed rock, hints at more rewards to come with cellar aging.” 95 points – Vinous

My Review: Garnet in the glass. Richer and darker than the rest. Shows the potential of the tastiness. I took one home. Clearly, my favorite wine of the tasting. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“We are pleased to offer seated flight tastings for all our guests. Whether you choose a private table outside or a seat at one of our tasting bars inside, you will have a choice of flights and your own dedicated space for the duration of your tasting. General tastings are $25 per person, free for wine club members, and each fee is waived per 2-bottle purchase…” Get all the info and make a reservation here!

If you make it there, tell them Decanting Monterey sent you!

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

DENNER: State of the Art Gravity Flow and Old World Principles Make Great Wine!

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 6

THE STORY

Denner Vineyards was our last stop on Day 2 of our ambitious Paso weekend and, perhaps, that wasn’t fair to Denner.  It’s hard to show up in prime tasting form after two huge tastings and no real lunch. We did our best, but they really deserve another visit.

This is the first time I’ve presented Denner wines on Decanting Monterey!

THE WINERY

About Denner Vineyards (from their website)

“Ron Denner built his state-of-the-art gravity flow winery on Vineyard Drive in Willow Creek in 2005 after spending several years developing the adjacent land from barley fields into vineyards.

“Over the years, winemaker Anthony Yount made Denner into one of the great wineries of California through a combination of careful vineyard management (including dry-farming and organic practices) and non-interventionist winemaking. Today, Anthony continues his work at Denner as the consulting winemaker for head winemaker, Mark Williams.

“In the cellar, Denner takes cues from the old world, working with a percentage of whole-cluster in his Rhone blends, relying on native yeasts for fermentation, and bottling their wines unfined and unfiltered. Of course, all of this is to translate, as faithfully as possible, the terroir of a great site, with Denner’s patchwork of calcareous clay vineyards soaring to more than 1,000 feet above sea level.”

THE WINE

I have 5 wines to present to you today from Denner. My reviews are a bit skimpy under the late-in-the-day circumstances. Winery notes come from their website or the tasting sheet, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2023 Denner Theresa, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, 13.6% ABV, $55 (#1635) 25% Roussanne, 22% Grenache Blanc, 18% Vermentino, 10% Clairette Blanche

Winery Notes: “Smelling like a warm spring day with delicate aromas of chamomile, oleander, beeswax and a kiss of sea spray.  The wine dances with notes of candied grapefruit, mandarin orange and Asian pear wrapped in sweet brioche.  Medium bodied, the plump and juicy palate dazzles the senses calling you back for another sip.” Jeb Dunnuck: 91 | James Suckling: 93

My Review: Yellow in the glass. Bright nose. Creamy on the palate a big delicious well balanced white. A nice wine. August 2025

2022 Denner Ditch Digger, Paso Robles, 14.6% ABV, $85 (#1636) 29% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache, 23% Syrah, 6% Graciano, 5% Garnacha, 3% Carignan, 3% Cinsault, 3% Counoise

Winery Notes: “Muddled wild strawberries and mulberries are juxtaposed against citronella and garigue.  Anise seed, petrichor and red plum notes fill out this massively complex wine.  The earthy, savory nature of the blend keeps the open generous textures in check as the finish sails on and on in perfect harmony.” Jeb Dunnuck: 97 points

My Review: This was a very tasty blend. It presented lighter in the palate than the big reds we’d been having, which made it a delightful and delicious wine. August 2025

2022 Denner Gold Digger, 14.7% ABV, $85 (#1637) 52% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc, 13% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon                  

Winery Notes: “Sweet aromas of cinnamon, cocoa powder and clove are joined by red currant jelly and roasted red peppers.  Black cherry and more confectionary spices can be found on the decadent palate where perfectly ripe tannins are round and voluptuous creating a silky finish.” James Suckling: 93 points

My Review: This wine presented like a rich Bordeaux blend. I found it incredibly good. My kind of wine. August 2025

2022 Denner Mother of Exiles, Paso Robles, 14.3% ABV, $85 (#1638) 65% Cabernet Sauvignon 22% petite Verdot 5% Tempranillo, 3% Tannat, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Graciano, 1% Merlot

Wine Enthusiast – 92 points: “Dark and deep aromas of blackberry, mahogany and tobacco are serious yet approachable on the nose of this blend…. The palate is bold and extracted, offering stewed, jammy fruit flavors alongside bittersweet chocolate elements.” Matt Kettmann, May 2025

My Review: Very late in our tasting day, my only comment was “Wow!” We definitely need to revisit this winery! August 2025

2022 Denner Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.2% ABV, $95 (#1639) 79% Cabernet Sauvignon 14% Petit Verdot, 6%Tannat, 1% Carignan

Winery Notes: “Historic 1926 Zinfandel vineyard atop Mt. Veeder, along the steep southern edge of the Mayacamas Mountains. Refined Napa Valley brambly mountain fruits, violets, graphite; signature Mt Veeder tannins with a bright, fresh finish. A Zin that could convert a skeptic or two. Beautiful, even more so with some air.”

My Review: Another good wine from Denner with a tannic finish. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Nestled in the hills of west Paso Robles, Denner Vineyards produces award winning wines from our beautiful estate. We invite you to visit us for your next Paso Robles wine tasting experience. Come for the wine and stay for the views.”

5414 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles 93446 | (805) 239 4287

Find more info and make an appointment here: https://www.dennervineyards.com/visit/.

If you make it there, tell them Decanting Monterey sent you!

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

TURLEY ROLLS OUT THE 2023 FALL RELEASE WITH A PARTY!

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 5

THE STORY

We are now smack in the middle of our weekend in Paso Robles at the winery which brought us there –  Turley. When Turley announce this first pre-release tasting, we decided this was a rare opportunity for once to try the wines before buying.

We were hosted as though we were wine judges, seminar style, in the winery by certified sommelier, Christina Turley. Christina is the oldest of Larry’s 4 daughters. She did a fabulous job educating us on the vineyards and the vintage. I thought this was excellent marketing – a way to get members down to their Templeton tasting room after closing their Amador one. Our bonus was tasting some library wines, all of which was accompanied by some charcuterie – if you could pull yourselves away from the tastings! But the icing on top was free shipping on our Fall order – if we placed it then.  Smart!

You can read my last post about Turley here: A NEW TURLEY FROM PASO ROBLES!

ABOUT TURLEY (from their website)

“Turley Wine Cellars was founded in Napa Valley by former emergency room physician Larry Turley in 1993. Under the direction of winemaker Tegan Passalacqua, Turley now makes 50 different wines from over 50 vineyards across California, primarily Zinfandel and Petite Syrah, with many vines dating back to the late 1800s. By farming organically and focusing on old vine vineyards of these varieties, Turley aims to both create and preserve California’s unique winemaking culture.”

There is a great story on their website about how emergency room doctor Larry Turley got into winemaking and co-founded Frog’s Leap Winery, leaving it to start Turley Wine Cellars in 1993. But what I liked even more was this description, which explains why Turley makes so many wines from so many vineyards:

“Because Larry has never met an old vine vineyard he didn’t like, Turley now makes 47 separate wines from over 50 different vineyards, some with vines that date back to the late 1800’s.  Often weak and decaying, these old vine vineyards require extra care and attention in order to restore them to their former glory.  After twenty-five years in the emergency room, Larry can now focus his resuscitative skills on the various old vineyards that comprise the wines he loves.”

THE WINE

I have 8 wines to present to you today from Turley. Interestingly, none are Central Coast!  Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. As a rule, I don’t correct typos from winery websites. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Zampatti Vineyard, Sonoma, $50 (#1627)

Winery Notes: “A miniscule jewel of an organic vineyard, planted 1915. Raspberry preserves, violets, and holiday spices, evocative of the orange and clove pomanders we make at home each year. Juicy and mouthwatering with plenty of lift, freshness, and zesty energy. A lovely pairing with either “Mule Skinner Blues” and “Love is like a Butterfly.”

My Review: Blueberry on the nose. Rich and delicious red fruits and blueberry on the palate. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Dog Town, Clements Hill AVA, Lodi, $50 (#1628)

Winery Notes: “A jewel of Lodi, these organically farmed ungrafted vines were planted in 1944. An ambrosial mélange of cranberry, currant, gingerbread, orange peel and cigar box-like spices. Refined and elegant, tea-like tannins combined with the baker’s chocolate and dried raspberry on the palate make this wine a must-have from 2023. Enjoy with the haunting beauty of “Silver Dagger.”.”

My Review: Texture like tea steeped for a while. Cassis or prune on the palate. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Judge Bell, Amador, $43 (#1629)

Winery Notes: “Ungrafted vines planted 1907 in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Sweetly scented of cherries, cranberries, chapparal, baking spices, and sappy evergreen. The fine-grained granitic dust tannins are softened up with a pleasurable candy-coated-like texture from the ripe fruits. A true delight, evocative of the ancient mountain soils.”

My Review: Dark slightly cooked fruit. I kinda like it. We have enjoyed the Judge Bell year over year. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley, $76 (#1630)

Winery Notes: “Legendary 1888 planting on Moon Mtn., along the southeastern edge of the Mayacamas. Fragrant dark fruits, black pepper, orange peel; palate is boldly full bodied with plenty of richness. If you are a fan of the Dragon, don’t miss Monte Rosso. Lay down and/or decant before enjoying.”

My Review: More sophisticated. The Monte Rosso has become one of my favorites. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Brandlin Ranch, Napa, $53 (#1631)

Winery Notes: “Historic 1926 Zinfandel vineyard atop Mt. Veeder, along the steep southern edge of the Mayacamas Mountains. Refined Napa Valley brambly mountain fruits, violets, graphite; signature Mt Veeder tannins with a bright, fresh finish. A Zin that could convert a skeptic or two. Beautiful, even more so with some air.”

My Review: Delicious nose. We are long time fans of Zinfandel from this vineyard and ordered some. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Dupratt  Vineyard, Mendocino, $50 (#1632)

Winery Notes: “A destination worth the distance, this remote, secluded old vine Mendocino mountain vineyard was planted ungrafted in 1919 at 1500 ft. Wild brambly berries, meat marinade, sarsaparilla, and game. More fruit and plenty of mountain tannin on the palate, with bright balancing acidity and an impressive, dynamic, lengthy finish. Given this site is oft referred to as the “islands in the sky,” it is only fitting to pair it with Dolly’s “Islands in the Stream.” Decant.”

My Review: Medicinal on the nose. Pine needles in the soil. Try the old Dupratts now. Really delicious. Lay down and decant August 2025

2023 Turley Petite Syrah, Library Vineyard, Napa Valley, $71 (#1633)

Winery Notes: “Cherished in the community, this incredibly varietally diverse vineyard was planted 1880-1920. Deep and dynamic, it draws you in with blackberry, currant, tropical fruits, and grilled game. Lay down and decant and enjoy for many years to come.”

My Review: Really dense in the glass alcohol and smooth dark fruit like the bbq we had last night. Sweet and spicy. August 2025

2023 Turley Petite Syrah, Rattlesnake Ridge, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, $66 (#1634)

Winery Notes: “Certified organic estate vines planted at nearly the highest point (2400 ft.) on Howell Mtn, on a windswept ridge overlooking Napa Valley. Classic Rattlesnake notes of berries wrapped in supple leather and surrounded by wild herbs and underbrush. Texture is signature mountain structure, lending length and robustness to the finish. Pair with Dolly’s early hit about a rough yet romantic lonesome soul, “Joshua.”

My Review: No note but I am sure I ordered some. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Want to try a Turley? Let’s head on down to Paso Robles!

Paso Robles Tasting Room: “A few miles inland of California’s storied Central Coast, Paso Robles is a pioneer’s paradise, where surfers, cowboys, vintners, farmers, and ranchers commingle amidst ancient vines, towering oak trees, and rolling hills.”

It is open daily 10 am – 4 pm. If you make it there, tell them Decanting Monterey sent you!

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Epoch Estate Wines: Preserving the Paderewski and York Mountain Legacies

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 4

THE STORY

After breakfast at Margie’s Diner, we began Day Two of our weekend in Paso Robles by heading to the farthest west destination and working our way back – sort of. We started with a beauty: Epoch Estate Wines. We were treated like royalty with a tailored menu awaiting us and exceptional service. The tasting room is large and regal. The whole experience was impressive.  

Epoch Estate Wines was new to me and I’m glad we got to taste their wines.  I deeply appreciate that our tasting fees were waived in advance by the manager. That made it possible for the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North to experience their wines. We are also grateful that we could order charcuterie there, as our grand ideas for packing a lunch dissipated – it was a great plate, easily shareable by all of us. 

THE WINERY

About Epoch Estate Wines from their website:

“A huge part of our story at Epoch is about preserving two integral pieces of Paso Robles history. When we purchased our Paderewski Vineyard in 2004, not only did we hit the jackpot as far as soils and views were concerned, we were also buying a property that was once owned, planted, and cherished by Polish pianist and Prime Minister, Ignacy Jan Paderewski. In 2010, we were fortunate enough to purchase the old York Mountain property, which was the site of the first bonded winery on the Central Coast. To own two properties that boast such rich history is a dream come true, and we make it a priority to preserve and share both the Paderewski and York Mountain legacies through our wines and the Epoch experience…” So much more of the history to read on the website.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 6 Epoch Estate Wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North.” Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2024 Epoch Rosé, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 14.1% ABV, $40 (#1621) 63% Mourvèdre, 26% Grenache, 11% Syrah

Winery Notes: “Sunsetty in color and character, our 2023 Rosé is an exhale that brings instant relaxation. As aromas of juicy watermelon, lime zest, newly-mowed lawn, fresh sage, and dewy spring flowers fill the senses, flavors bring acid-driven texture to the mix, summoning wild strawberry, liquid minerals, fresh cream, banana, and sweet hay. Mouthwatering at first sniff, experience the evolution of aromas and flavors as the Rosé warms and breathes in your glass. – Jordan Fiorentini, Winemaker” 

My Review: Melon and peach on the nose. Slightly sweet – honeydew and honey, crisp on the palate with tons of minerality and strawberry on the finish. A pleasant backyard wine. August 2025

2023 Epoch White, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 14.3% ABV, $50 (#1622) 51% Grenache Blanc, 40% Viognier, 9% Roussanne

Winery Notes: “The 2023 White lures you in immediately on the nose and palate – crisp apricot, crushed gravel, flint, pineapple, lemon blossom, vanilla bean, and powdered sugar – all the while leaving you with the impression that you are inhaling a refreshing sea breeze. Don’t be fooled into thinking these bright, zingy flavors can only be enjoyed young. Our White ages just as well as any big, bold red. It is also one of the food-friendliest whites (heck, wines) out there, bringing freshness and enjoyment to diverse flavors from scallops and oysters to Indian, Thai, and BBQ cuisines. – Jordan Fiorentini, Winemaker”

My Review: Pale yellow in the glass. Bubblegum lemon, lime zest, in the nose. Peach and Meyer lemon on the palate with a touch of asphalt in a good way – quite a delicious white. August 2025

2021 Epoch Sensibility Grenache, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 14.9% ABV, $100 (#1623)

2021 Epoch Estate Blend, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 15% ABV, $70 (#1624) 40% Syrah, 24% Mourvèdre, 12% Grenache, 9% Graciano, 8% Tempranillo, 7% Carignan

Winery Notes: “Purity of Grenache, specifically from Paderewski’s west Paso limestone-studded, dark grey soils, speaks so clearly through the 2021 Sensibility, our 50% concrete aged, iconic expression of our beloved “Pinot of the Rhône.”  Aromas of fresh red raspberries, wild strawberries, crushed stone, coastal chapparal, naval orange, and citrus rind echo in the flavors on the palate.  Crisp and textured, with structure setting in mid-palate, this wine’s characteristic Grenache tannins ease their tightness as it breathes in your glass, broadening the palate and lengthening the finish. – Jordan Fiorentini, Winemaker.”

My Review: A delicious nose of intense, crushed berries and brown sugar. A bigger, richer Grenache than typical on the central coast. Slightly tannic palate and alcohol on the finish. August 2025

Winery Notes: “Serious and starting off tightly wound, our 2021 Estate Blend is begging for a decant or to be opened hours before consuming.  Weighing more heavily on the savory, saline, and brine elements at first, the aromas start to evolve as this wine opens like a large hardback novel with the pages fanning out.  Kalamata olives, leather, wet forest floor, and roasted game open to pure blackberry, black plum, tobacco, bay leaf, vanilla, anise, and graphite.  Powerful structure juts out in all directions as the wine fills the mouth with abundant texture and spice.  Keep this bottle open for several days and witness how long it continues to offer different perspectives and textures – a true harbinger of the age-worthiness of this wine. – Jordan Fiorentini, Winemaker”

My Review: Sweet, dark plum and earth and gamey notes on the nose. Smooth palate of well blended fruit. A much lighter wine which would go well with a meal or on its own. Tannic finish. A well-made wine. More Bordeaux-like in style. I like this August 2025

2021 Epoch Authenticity Syrah, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 14.7% ABV, $105 (#1625)

Winery Notes: “2021 Authenticity is an intense, energetic, and powerful Syrah that straddles bold Paso Roblean fruit and cool climate freshness. A yin-yang effect sets in on the nose and carries through the palate as this wine waxes and wanes between concentrated red/black raspberries and savory raw/cured meats, violets, and fresh ground pepper.  Herbs de Provence and coastal chaparral grace the nose and palate from start to finish. Vibrant acidity and chalky minerals play with the tannins and get your salivary glands moving, yielding a palate that will go the distance in your cellars. – Jordan Fiorentini, Winemaker”

My Review: Menthol and caramel, licorice. Wow, what a palate – big, rich, red fruit goes to leather and tobacco. Puckers you up until you get to the back end – in a good way. Would go fabulously with charcuterie. August 2025

2021 Epoch Ingenuity, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 15.2% ABV, $85 (#1626) 74% Petite Sirah, 10% Grenache, 7% Mourvèdre, 6% Syrah, 3% Viognier

Winery Notes: “The 2021 Ingenuity begins with a brooding and dark bouquet of savory and reductive notes – dark earth, umami, tar and roasted mushrooms, roasted game, and herbs. As soon as oxygen hits the glass, fruit and spice elements join the mix, offering notes of blueberry coulis, huckleberry, violet, tobacco leaf, and vanilla bean. Its bold and structured palate showcases its Petite Sirah lead and is laced with minerals, big rich tannin, and a bright acid lift on the back palate. This multifaceted wine needs to breathe, so open it a day early, decant, or age it in your cellars – Jordan Fiorentini, Winemaker”

My Review: Inky in the glass. Alcohol on the nose. Grapey and juicy on the palate a grapey, medium fruity front palate with a tannic finish. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Visit our historically-storied tasting room to sip our delicious 100% estate wines and to hear our rich story from our fun and fabulous team!  We love sharing our wine with new friends and look forward to meeting you!”

The Epoch Tasting Room is located at 7505 York Mountain Road in Templeton. Open Daily from 10am – 4pm. You will find more information and tasting options here: Visit Us.

Check them out on Instagram here: @epochwines.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

**FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Indigené Cellars: “Sip and Savor the Terroir”

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 3

THE STORY

Still on Day One of our weekend in Paso Robles, I was on a mission to taste Monterey wines at Indigené Cellars.  We had a hard time finding them, as they are located off the alley, unlike most of the downtown wineries facing the central plaza. They are tucked away right next to Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ, where we had dinner. As a bonus, we got to meet briefly vintner Raymond Smith while we were at the winery. (For more about our Paso weekend, see all my posts here and subscribe for free to see all the upcoming installments!)

I heard about Indigené Cellars some time back and had corresponded with Raymond about finding a way to sample some of his Carmel Valley AVA wines.  I’ve tasted the Ambiente once before, but this was or chance to taste a broader portfolio of his wines.

THE WINERY

About Indigené Cellars from their website:

“Established in 2006, Indigené Cellars has astounded discerning wine lovers for more than a decade. Our small, family-run winery is dedicated to terroir-based winemaking to produce exceptional and noteworthy wines. We at Indigené invite you to experience our humble translation of art, nature, and tradition.”

About Raymond Smith:

“Raymond Smith, founder of Indigené Cellars celebrates the origin of the terroir in every bottle of wine he makes. After years of bottling and tasting both fruit off the vine and wine, Smith has found his niche making wines that, as the land, are in a constant state of evolution and known to wow visitors with every sip.

“Born and raised in Oakland, CA, Smith worked as a ship joiner and grocery clerk, relocating to Paso Robles, CA, a small town on the Central Coast in the late 1980’s. He quickly acclimated himself to the many aspects of the wine business. Shortly thereafter he helped build and eventually owned and operated a small fleet of mobile wine bottling lines, developing great relationships with growers and producers, who shared the intricacies of the wine business.  Smith chose to further challenge himself and work to create excellent growing conditions and ideal cellaring practices, focusing on distinguishing aromas, transcending earth-tone textures, a balanced, fruit-driven palate, and a well-structured tannin to create unique noteworthy varietals and elegant blends.”

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 5 Indigené wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North.” Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Indigené Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $30 (#1616)

Winery Notes: “Complex and Focused citrus notes brushed with light minerality. Layered tones of almond and quince frame vanilla and asian spice that fade as the medium toast expands.” 

My Review: Honeydew and white peach on the nose. Crisp palate with minerality shining through. Tasty. August 2025

2020 Indigené Ambiente (Tuscan Blend), Paso Robles AVA, 14.1% ABV, $40 (#1617)

Winery Notes: “Smooth aromas of blistered black cherry and cola show on the nose of this bottling. The palate proves to be a pleasantly down-the-middle expression of the grape, offering both cherry and an array of nutmeg and cola spices.”  Gold Medal Best in Class, Central Coast Wine Competition

Wine Enthusiast – 90 points: “Creamy aromas of caramel and black plum pudding make for a rich entry to the nose of this bottling. The palate is thick in mouthfeel, offering baked berry alongside allspice, pepper and more caramel flavors.” — Matt Kettmann, March 2024

My Review: Rose petal and oak on the nose. Thin dark fruit on the palate with tar and tannin. August 2025

2012 Indigené Venado Grande Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles AVA, 14% ABV, $40 (#1618)

Winery Notes: “Features an expressive mix of flavors built around dried currant, dusty, cedary oak, a gravel pit of newly crushed rock and melted black licorice.”

My Review: Fabulous nose. And a big finish. Holding up well – in its prime.  August 2025

2021 Indigené Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $50 (#1619)

Winery Notes: “Deep garnet hue with rich black cherries, cocoa and new leather nose. Cherry and ripe plum notes are wrapped beautifully in lavender, expresso powder and dark chocolate. Medium to full bodied…”

My Review: Smooth and yummy. A fine representation of wine from Cachagua, Carmel Valley. August 2025

2018 Indigené Parenthesis Syrah, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $50 (#1620)

Winery Notes: “Opaque purple and brilliant violet hue. Floral laced notes of black and blue fruits are medium to full Bodied. A wild herb and olive tapenade slant brings restraint to the earthy minerals and long polished tannins.”

My Review: Rather cassis like. I’m a huge Syrah fan and would like to try this wine again. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Come visit us at our downtown Paso Robles location.”

815 12th St Suite B. (off the alley behind the building), Paso Robles. Open Thursday – Saturday, 1 pm-9pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm.”

Check them out on Instagram here: @indigenecellarsofficial.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

**FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Herman Story: “The best wine you’ve ever been served outside a tire shop.”

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 2

THE STORY

We continue our wine tasting adventures in Paso Robles with a whopper.  I remembered tasting a Herman Story wine with our Decanting Monterey Wine Pod and put it on our list. (For more about our Paso weekend, see last week’s post here and subscribe for free to see all the upcoming installments!)

Herman Story is located in an unlikely place for a tasting room.  No, not right off the town square, but literally between a tire shop and a welding supply place. We were very happy with the experience and the wines. We tasted lots of wines, got a tour of the facility, and even got to taste a prized Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah. We bought more wine here than at any other winery. I would go back in a heartbeat.

My previous post about Herman Story is here: Herman Story Wines: “…made, schlepped, peddled, and drunk with friends.”

THE WINERY

About Herman Story from their website (which is hilarious, by the way and worthy of a look):

“Here’s a little secret:

“We’re cooks, not chemists. You might be saying, what about terroir? Science? The technical details I read on that one critic’s vintage report? Don’t worry, that’s all part of it. Get grapes from exceptional vineyards, make careful decisions in the cellar, be relentless about quality, you’ll be turning out showstoppers.

“At the end of the day, we make wines that’ll pair just as well with a triple-stacked bacon cheeseburger as they will with an extravagant eight-course tasting menu. Wines you can contemplate at a massive mahogany desk or chug while your friend falls from a keg-stand into an inflatable pool of Jello. Either way, they’re a damn good time.”

About Russell P. From:

“Before he was a winemaker, a self-proclaimed black belt, and an internationally renowned runway model, Russell always had a borderline-concerning obsession with great food and wine. After graduating from Cal Poly with a few winery internships (and a bunch of noise complaints) under his belt, he started Herman Story in 2001 with seven humble barrels of Syrah stashed in his employer’s cellar.” You can read more about Russell here.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 8 Herman Story wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North.” Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2021 Herman Story Witness Protection Chardonnay, Paso Robles AVA, 14.4% ABV, $72 (#1608)

Winery Notes: “This is the Wednesday night book club that turns out to be a front for a sports gambling ring. Up front, refined lemon-meringue formalities and Anjou pear prose, but behind closed doors, reserved suburbanites slamming sidecars and placing bets that would give their accountants conniptions. Take the over on spiced pineapple, call stone fruit to cover the spread, and throw a parlay on vanilla, nutmeg, and that buzzing streak of minerality. Then gather your things, collect your winnings, and tell them you can’t wait for chapter two.” 

My Review: Nice bouquet with peach, a smidge of butter. A good Chardonnay. August 2025

2020 Herman Story On the Road Grenache, Paso Robles AVA, 15.7% ABV, $72 (#1609)

Winery Notes: “These hard-boiled bootleggers know how to make a scene. An hour before, you were at the local juice joint, downing black cherry and black tea elixirs with a couple of licorice-suited cool cats. Then you had to scram, and fast. Now, you’re hightailing a Model T across the frozen Detroit River with the coppers in hot pursuit and this wine in tow. Pop a bottle for good fortune. Candied-blackberry satin, mossy mineral mother of pearl, spiced pie crust pistols, maraschino liqueur, the wind in your face and Canada’s shrouded shores, just out of sight.” 

My Review: No notes. August 2025

2021 Herman Story Bolt Cutter, Paso Robles AVA, 15.8% ABV, $72 (#1610) 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petit Verdot, 10% Syrah

Winery Notes: “All the brash ferocity of a Clubber Lang left hook, tempered by the gentle nuance of his post-boxing career as a pâtissier. Chef’s whites with the sleeves torn off and sideways toque blanc, hands capable of furious jab flurries, now nimbly crafting marzipan blueberry cannelés, honey-drizzled blackberry tarts, star anise garnishes, black leather vests, crumbled graham cracker, and heavy gold chains, all delicately arranged on tiny alabaster plates. And he pities the fool who sends any of it back.”

My Review: Dirt and dark plum on the nose. I didn’t capture notes for the palate.  August 2025

2022 Herman Story Nuts & Bolts Syrah, Paso Robles AVA, 15.9% ABV, $72 (#1611)

Winery Notes: “Grandma always told you: never get into an Old West-style duel with a flintlock-wielding grizzly bear. But now, you’ve gone and completely ignored that advice. First pace, charred raspberry tree bark. Second pace, leather quivers full of white flowers. Third pace, molasses marble mushroom stew. Fourth pace, roast brisket meat hooks. Fith, mulberry maple-hilted bowie knives. Then you turn to find razor-sharp claws, mineral-tinged fisticuffs, and the answer to the lingering question of how gram-gram got that scar.”

My Review: Cinnamon and dark plum on the nose. My only tasting note is that “I could drink that.” We opened one of these at home and it proved that to be true.  One of my favorites of the day. August 2025

2021 Herman Story White Hawk Vineyard Syrah, Santa Barbara AVA, 15.9% ABV, $82 (#1612)

Winery Notes: “You didn’t know this old, marble-pillared hotel had a basement bar until you hit the wrong elevator button. A little ten-seater, solid maple, shrouded in sweet tobacco haze, backed by toasted Scotch barrels, a clientele donning mulberry Stetsons and swing dresses – straight from the dark-fruit memories of decades past. The barkeep plates up a perfectly crusted Ribeye, tinged with thyme and spicy pepper, beside a Rob Roy in a crystal glass. Sophisticated and timeless. Except when you try to go back, the concierge says the owner passed in 1958, and it’s been closed ever since.”

My Review: This is an enormous wine – fruity, intense, with tobacco on the finish. August 2025

2021 Herman Story Milk & Honey, Paso Robles AVA, 15.9% ABV, $72 (#1613) 72% Tempranillo, 19% Syrah, 7% Mourvedre, 2% Petit Verdot

Winery Notes: “Like you always say, it’s not a private-school fundraiser until someone throws a punch. To the great dismay of the superintendent, the scrum is upending trays of red velvet macarons and auction ready gift baskets. Benefactors in chocolate-lapelled jackets grappling over pepper-plum tortes. Punch-soaked valedictorians wielding cognac lamb chops like hatchets. Dark-fruit haymakers full of menace and mille-feuille. And by the time the smoke has settled and they’re searching for the provocateur, you’re already in the parking lot, sipping bourbon with the custodians.”

My Review: Really dark and tannic. That’s all I wrote. August 2025

2023 Herman Story First Time Caller Petite Sirah, Paso Robles AVA, 15.7% ABV, $72 (#1614)

Winery Notes: “There we have it, folks: a new champ of Brain Busters. You’ve bested your opponents in a grueling gauntlet of trivia trials. Now, Johnny, tell them what they’ve won. Headed your way is a coveted package including a full truckload of blueberry coulis, Violet-lavender mead, and herb-charred tenderloin. But that’s not all. We’re throwing in an all-inclusive trip to black-licorice shores, Black Amber plum paradise, cacao molé trails, and bramble mountain. All you have to do is answer this final, ever-so-simple question: Can you handle it?”

My Review: Toast, caramel, and a little stinky on the nose. Earthy on the palate. This is a huge wine which will last. Needs to age. August 2025

2022 Herman Story Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah, Santa Maria Valley AVA, Santa Barbara County, 15.8% ABV, $82 (#1615)

Winery Notes: “There’s a man who lives in a 1961 Shasta Airflyte on the shore of Loch Ness, and word is he can talk to Nessy. So hike out into the berry-strewn, brambly hills, through herb-laden forests and along crumbling slate crags, until you smell the stewed plum and pepper-crusted venison backstrap. There, he’ll outfit you with a huckleberry-flint bowie knife, vanilla-clove paracords, and an old Polaroid 600, then take you paddling in a dinghy, trying to fathom the boundless depths below.”

My Review: Dark, dark fruit and bacon fat on the nose. I’m in love with the fresh dark fruit on the palate of this wine. Bien Nacido is one of my all-time favorite vineyards for Syrah. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Yes, odd location. Yes, a must-stop winery if you like your big reds like I do.  I’d go back in a heartbeat.

“Located between the tire shop & the welding supply place”: 1227 Paso Robles Street, Paso Robles Thursday – Monday, 11am-5pm, Tuesday & Wednesday 11am-4pm.”

Check them out on Instagram here: @hermanstorywines.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

**FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Calcareous Vineyard: “An Elevated Sense of Place”

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 1

Our friends and we are members of Turley Wine Cellars and decided to attend a rare preview of the upcoming releases at their tasting room in Templeton. Since our friends hadn’t been to the region before, I planned us a diverse and ambitious weekend in Paso Robles wine country! We launched our late August trip with lunch and a tasting at Calcareous Vineyard– it was a fabulous kickoff to a great weekend. 

At Calcareous Vineyard, we were seated at a large round table, where we met our server, Philly.  He knew everything about the wines, which we enjoyed alongside a delightful lunch. I found their lunch menu to be one of the most diverse in the region and would repeat this experience in a heartbeat. I highly recommend an in-person visit to Calcareous – make a reservation for lunch and have a memorable experience.

I’ll be presenting the wineries we visited and wines we tasted over 9 separate posts. We were welcomed so warmly and recognized as industry at almost every place we went, with tailored tasting menus and/or industry discounts. I am grateful for that, as this blog is a labor of love to promote Central Coast Wines.

THE WINERY

About Calcareous Vineyard from their website:

“At 1,800 feet above sea level, from atop the highest peak of our Estate, the breathtaking panoramas of Paso Robles were a favorite of our founders when Calcareous Vineyard was first established. It wasn’t just the romance of this view that was captivating. It was the certainty that this place—this singular mix of soil, water, sun, and air—would impose itself on anything that grew here. Today, rows of Rhône and Bordeaux varietals now cascade down the steep, chalky, sun-drenched slopes in small blocks, interplanted to capture the most highly-focused expression of place.”

You can read more about Calcareous’ history and winemaking here.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 5 Calcareous wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Calcareous Estate Chardonnay, Paso Robles AVA, 13.4% ABV, $42 (#1603)

Winery Notes: “Perhaps the greatest testament to our unique soils is our Estate grown Chardonnay. The warm, dry climate of Calcareous does not at first appear to be a suitable place to grow this Burgundian varietal. But the soil allows the grapes to maintain incredible acidity, the structural back bone of world class Chardonnay, and we can achieve perfectly ripened fruit that maintains clarity and purity.” 

My Review: Pale golden in the glass. Honeysuckle and lime zest on the nose. A creamy palate finishing with lemon notes and lots of minerality. August 2025

2022 Calcareous Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $60 (#1604)

Winery Notes: “Calcareous Vineyard was founded upon the idea, first and foremost, of growing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. The perfect combination of soil and climate allow our site to play to both the fruit and structural elements of the varietal, allowing us to produce one of our regions great examples of this most noble cultivar.” 

My Review: Dark garnet almost purple. Crushed berry and plum on the nose. Not fruit-forward, yet a yummy palate of plum, blackberry and blueberry, with a caramelized finish. A little sweet, yet has an edge to it. Very tasty. I like this wine. August 2025

2022 Calcareous Devil’s Canyon Syrah, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $75 (#1605)

Winery Notes: “The warmest, steepest, and driest part of our Estate Vineyard is “lovingly” called Devil’s Canyon by those that farm it. The Syrah grown there is a profound statement on the effects of our climate and soil upon the grapes we grow. This wine embodies why we feel our site is such an incredibly unique place to grow and make wine.”

My Review: Beautiful deep garnet in the glass. Deep fruits on the nose with a delicious dark fruit palate. A slightly tough finish for me. Very, very tasty. My partner liked it. August 2025

2022 Calcareous The Messer, Paso Robles AVA, 15.1% ABV, $75 (#1606) 70% Malbec, 30% Cabernet Franc

Winery Notes: “Forged by the Messer family, Calcareous Vineyard and its unique terroir excel with a surprising range of varietals, including our blending favorites Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Named after a 14th-century sword and meaning “knife” in German, this wine honors the Messer legacy, embodying all the balance, strength, and elegance of a perfectly wrought blade.”

My Review: Inky in the glass. Dark chocolate, smoke and dark fruit on the nose. Very dark intense palate like a cherry chocolate cordial. August 2025

2023 Calcareous Très Violet, Paso Robles AVA, 14.7% ABV, $75 (#1607) 46% Mourvèdre, 39% Grenache, 15% Syrah

Winery Notes: “Très Violet is our Estate’s take on a traditional Rhône-style red wine. By combining the depth and richness of Syrah, spice, and leather from Mourvèdre with the bright fruit elegance of Grenache, we can produce a multifaceted yet cohesive wine. In this way, the Très Violet is perhaps the fullest expression of our Estate.

“Shows a slight mocha cast up front, mixing in wild thyme and kirsch notes. Gives way to a gravel-accented core of blackberry and damson plum that deftly balances vibrancy and tannic structure, lending a certain engaging energy to the finish that makes this accessible now but built for cellaring. The finish is long, plush and filled with berry flavors. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2040. 1,190 cases made.” Aaron Romano, Senior Editor | 95pts Wine Spectator. 

My Review: Almost purple in the glass. Earth, dark plum and cherry with a touch of celery on the nose. A huge, delicious palate. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Perched atop the property at 1,500 feet above the expansive Salinas Valley, our tasting room provides an unbelievable setting in which to experience the beauty of Paso Robles. A journey to taste here will offer you award-winning wines, breathtaking views, and a beautifully landscaped outdoor seating area. The experienced tasting room staff will guide you through the wines, and you can discover why we are so passionate about the wines produced here.” Check them out on Instagram here: @calcareouswine.

Open 10:00am – 5:00pm Daily at 3430 Peachy Canyon Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 239-0289

© Decanting Monterey 2025

**FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

2018 Boëté Cabernet Franc Revisit: Scrumptiousness in a Glass

THE STORY

We recently opened this astounding, impressive 2018 Boëté Reserve Cabernet Franc. After a bit of digging, I realized my initial writeup of this wine (Boëté – A Personal Milestone Celebration Inside the Winery!) was pre-release and at the end of a tasting, so I am bringing it back to you again, 4 years later.

I last wrote about Boëté Winery here: Boëté Presents Outstanding Carmel Valley Wines to the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society!

THE WINERY

Here’s a bit of their story from their website:

“…Working in the vineyard and at the winery is a family affair with sons Jesse, Sam, and Dillon working full-time alongside their dad. John makes all the vineyard and wine making decisions, with great attention to detail being paid throughout the growing season and the wine making process; from pruning to fermentation and aging, to blending and barrel selection.

“Today, more than 6,000 grapevines grow on 7 acres, producing fruit that is widely regarded as some of California’s best.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting just one wine. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a matter of practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2018 Boëté Reserve Cabernet Franc, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $52 (#336)

My Review: Dark garnet, almost purple in the glass. Blackberry, cedar, coffee, and Coca Cola on the nose, all carrying over to a cassis-driven palate with a delicious dark cherry finish. I like this wine. July 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

You can taste and purchase Boëté wines at The Barrel Room every day (closed Wednesdays), 12-5 p.m. 5 Del Fino Place, Carmel Valley Village. 

You can read more about the winery and purchase their wines on line here: https://www.boetewinery.com/our-wines-list/Our-wines-list/#close. For more information, please call 831-625-5040 or email boetewinery@comcast.net.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

O’Reilly Wins Gold at the California State Fair!

THE STORY

My friend and home winemaker Erin O’Reilly recently dropped off her 2023 Affatim Cabernet Sauvignon for us to try. She was “super excited” because it was awarded a Gold Medal at the Spring 2025 California State Fair Home Wine Competition! We shared it with the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod for a thorough review.

I’ve written about Erin and her wine story before in Decanting Monterey.  You can find my previous post here: tèr·ra·ve·nos – Wine Experimentation and Production at Home!

ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR HOME WINE COMPETITION

From the link above:

“The California State Fair Home Wine Competition supports and promotes winemaking as a home craft and is designed to increase the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the amateur winemaker. The competition provides an opportunity for these wines to be judged in an organized and professional manner while delivering impartial evaluation feedback, and to recognize the talent of the successful home winemaker.”

THE WINERY

Adapted from her website tèr·ra·ve·nos: Erin has completed the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program levels 1-3, and just earned her WSET Wine Diploma. In addition, she holds the Spanish Wine Scholar certification, along with the Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) credential through the Society of Wine Educators. She has completed the Wine Studies and Wine Marketing Program through Santa Rosa Junior College. And, like me, she is a member of the lively Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society.  As Erin says, if you’re local, join us!

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting a single wine from Erin. Winery notes come from Erin directly. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2023 Affatim Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast AVA, 14.2% ABV (#1602) 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot

Winery Notes: “Affatim means sufficient, amply, complete satisfaction. I was pleased with how this wine blend came together…The Cabernet Sauvignon 80% came from San Antonio Valley AVA, the Merlot 20% came from Almaden Valley in Santa Clara County…This is a solid wine, and I enjoyed making it and playing with blends and oak. I love how it all came together.”

My Review: Dark plum and cherry aromas on the nose. Not musty, but not fruity. Chalky on the smooth palate. Mint on the finish. Very drinkable! We enjoyed this wine! April 2025

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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