Paso Robles is one of California’s most exciting up and coming wine regions. Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, real estate here is still affordable enough that you can find excellent wines at reasonable prices. Although Paso is quickly gaining a reputation as a world-class region for syrah, it is cabernet sauvignon from this AVA that first caught the attention of wine enthusiasts. Hot days ensure that the grapes ripen fully, without any green or vegetal characters, while marine influenced cold nights help the wines retain structure and acidity, and prevent over-ripeness, which could otherwise easily occur under the blistering Paso sun.
Sculpterra is a relatively new wine label, but its finest wines are sourced from family-owned estate vineyards planted to Cabernet Sauvignon in 1995. The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is a wonderful example of lush, ripe Paso cabernet. Deep red in color, the nose is dominated by black cherry, with accents of cedar, tobacco, and anise. It is monstrous on the palate, with sweet blackberry, raspberry and cassis, and hints of vanilla and smoke. Round, ripe, mouth-coating tannin and good acidity balance out the intense fruit flavors, providing structure through the persistent finish.
This is definitely a wine for fans of big, intense California cabernet, made in an open, accessible style perfect for drinking right away or for short-term cellaring. Very concentrated, this is the kind of red wine that can be enjoyed on its own, or with bold flavors such as grilled meat, pizza, or burgers. In style and quality, the 2006 Sculpterra is similar to a well-made Napa Valley cab, but at half the price!
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.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
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.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering 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.
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.
