2021 Epoch Tempranillo

Based on 90% Tempranillo, 6% Grenache, and 4% Graciano from the Paderewski Vineyard, the 2021 Tempranillo was fermented in concrete tanks and half-ton new French oak puncheons, then aged 30 months in mid-sized French oak barrels (35% new). It delivers smoky black fruits, Asian spice, tobacco, savory herbs, and a streak of brilliant minerality, all wrapped in a firm, focused frame. Full-bodied and concentrated, it’s built for the cellar and will shine alongside a well-marbled steak. Hide bottles for 4-5 years if you can. Drink 2029-2039. Winemaker Jordan Fiorentini continues to keep Epoch Estate at the top of the hierarchy in Paso Robles. She makes a bevy of wines, all of which are from their estate Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain vineyards. While the 2022s clearly rank with the top wines of the vintage, I think her 2023s might be even better. Readers can’t go wrong with any of these, and Jordan’s wines always shine for their purity, vibrancy, and balance while staying true to Paso Robles with ripe, sexy levels of fruit.

The 2021 Tempranillo entices with a stunning array of crushed strawberries, sweet sage, incense and white smoke. Silky and polished upon entry, it reveals blue and purple inner florals over ripe cherry-berry fruit. A complex web of fine-grained tannins tugs at the palate as lavender and tart blackberry fade through the dramatically long and staining finale.