The Esprit de Beaucastel Paso Robles 2006 was about $45, purchased as usual at The Wine House in Manlius. It rated 93 from the Wine Spectator and 91-93 from the Wine Advocate. It's a bright, cherry red, somewhat transparent. It sparkles in the sun! It has a terrific nose with berries very present. Well balanced, nice acidity for a red, tannins present but not intrusive. It has intensity, great fruit, red cherry, blueberry, wild berry, and the finish lasts a long time - 45 seconds to a minute easily.
The winery site for this bottle is at http://www.tablascreek.com/esprit06.shtml. They note that it's composed of 45% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache, 22% Syrah, 5% Counoise. Of important note, the vines are from cuttings from the Beaucastel estate.
The winery site for this bottle is at http://www.tablascreek.com/esprit06.shtml. They note that it's composed of 45% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache, 22% Syrah, 5% Counoise. Of important note, the vines are from cuttings from the Beaucastel estate.
The Tablas Creek Vineyard Esprit de Beaucastel 2006 is a blend of four estate-grown varietals, propagated from budwood cuttings from the Château de Beaucastel estate. The wine is based on the dark red fruit, earth, spice and mid-palate richness of Mourvedre, with additions of Grenache for forward fruit, approachability and lushness, Syrah for mineral, aromatics, and back-palate tannins, and Counoise for brambly spice and acidity.Highly recommended. Tasted April 9, 2009.
