91 Points - Wine Enthusiast
Being so robust, moderate to heavy dishes are best paired with this GSM.
Think fattier steaks, grilled sausage, duck risotto, mushrooms or dishes with Mediterranean spices.
This GSM blend from Thompson Vineyard from the Alisos Canyon corridor in Santa Barbara County is richly pleasing. Aged in large-format puncheons for 19 months, 17% of the French oak barrels being new. A big bold blend with great aging potential. Drink now through 2028.
Appellation: Santa Barbara County
Varietal Composition: 56% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 19% Mourvedre
Vineyard Source: 100% Thompson Vineyard (Blocks 1E (Grenache), 1B (Syrah), 2A (Mourvèdre)) located in the Alisos Canyon corridor in Santa Barbara County
Aging: Aged 19 months in 75% 500L French oak puncheons, of which 17% is new French oak
Cooperage: Francois Freres, Rosseau, Atelier
Harvest Brix: 24.4 - 26.8
Acid: 0.524 g/100ml
pH: 3.78
Alcohol: 14.7%
Production: 281 cases
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
93 Points
Big, forward bouquet with pear, golden apple, apple blossom, and dried orange peel. Loads of lime and grapefruit on the palate, maintaining balanced acidity and freshness. Subtle notes of honey and white flowers add depth to this lively wine.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
