91 Points - Wine Spectator
This dark-ruby GSM blend from Thompson Vineyard – along the Alisos Canyon corridor in Santa Barbara County – is richly pleasing. Aged in large-format puncheons for 20 months, with 93% of the French oak barrels being a year old or more. Drink now through 2024
Appellation: Santa Barbara County
Varietal Composition: 50% Grenache, 43% Mourvedre, 7% Syrah
Vineyard Source: 100% Thompson Vineyard (Blocks 1E, 2A, 1B)
Harvest Dates: 10/10/16 - 10/21/16
Aging: Aged in large format 500L Puncheons for 20 months, of which 7% new French oak, 93% 1 year old and older French oak
Cooperage: Atelier Centre, Ermitage, Francois Freres
Harvest Brix: 23.2 - 26.0
Acid: 0.559 g/100ml
pH: 3.66
Alcohol: 14.5%
Production: 377 cases
93 Points
Layers of blackberry and dark cherry with subtle hints of cedar, cocoa, and toasted oak. Rich and concentrated, it is supported by fine tannins and fresh acidity that bring balance and length to the finish. Approachable today, it also has the structure to reward additional time in the cellar.
95 Point Vintage
Opens with explosive aromatics of cassis, black plum, and sweet tobacco leaf, layered with warm baking spices (cinnamon and cardamom) and a light, complex ferrous mineral note. The Palate and mouthfeel is broad and sumptuous, bursting with flavors of juicy cherry pie, dark raspberry, and boysenberry compote.
The Finish carries a luxurious, savory presence showing undertones of leather, mocha, and milk chocolate, framed by supple, superfine tannins that melt into a long, polished finish.