2022 Tablas Creek Patelin de Tablas Rouge, Paso Robles

Longtime winemaker Neil Collins continues to master the tapestry of Rhône varieties that this winery imported and nurtured, including new counterparts like Terret Noir. This nine-vineyard blend, which includes 1% of that grape as well as 54% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre and 3% Counoise, offers aromas of cherry, red flower and light earth on the seamless nose. The palate is chalky in grip and layered in cherry, plum and spicy pepper flavors.

92 points wineenthusiast.com
 
Raspberries, fresh cherries, redcurrants and bay leaves on the nose follow through to a medium body with finely grained tannins. Suave and playful with bright acidity, crunchy fruit and a fresh, fruity finish. 54% syrah, 29% grenache, 13% mourvedre, 3% counoise and 1% terret noir. Drink or hold.

91 points jamessuckling.com

Patelin de Tablas Rouge is the vibrant introduction to the Tablas Creek style, blending estate fruit with carefully selected Rhône varieties from top Paso Robles growers. Tablas Creek was founded as a partnership between the Perrin family of Château de Beaucastel in Châteauneuf du Pape and the Haas family in California, with a mission to bring authentic Rhône genetics and philosophy to American soils. Based in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles, the estate works limestone rich soils and benefits from warm days cooled by Pacific breezes. Winemaker Neil Collins guides the wines with a focus on balance, savoury structure and Mediterranean sensibility.

The Rouge blend typically centres on Grenache and Syrah, supported by Mourvèdre and Counoise, mirroring classic southern Rhône proportions. Fermentation is carried out with attention to preserving varietal character, and élevage in neutral oak allows the fruit and spice to lead. The aim is freshness and approachability, capturing Paso’s sunshine while retaining lift and savoury detail.

Deep ruby in colour, the aromas open with blackberry, raspberry and plum layered with dried herbs, pepper and subtle earth. The palate is medium to full bodied and supple, with dark and red fruit wrapped in fine tannins and bright acidity. Flavours of cherry, spice and savoury garrigue notes carry into a long, balanced finish.

It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, lamb, barbecue and Mediterranean dishes. Drinking beautifully now for its vibrancy and charm, it will cellar comfortably for eight to ten years, gaining complexity and depth.