Tablas Creek 2018 Esprit de Tablas

At americanwine.club we are thrilled to offer the 2018 Esprit de Tablas from Tablas Creek Vineyard, one of California’s most respected Rhône‑style producers. Located in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles and farmed organically and biodynamically, this estate was founded in partnership with the Perrin family of Château de Beaucastel, bringing French Rhône heritage to California soil.
The 2018 vintage saw an almost ideal growing season: late rain delayed bud break, a cool summer allowed steady ripening and a limited heat spike enabled excellent balance. The final blend reads 40% Mourvèdre, 27% Syrah, 23% Grenache and 10% Counoise. Each varietal was fermented separately on native yeast then aged in large French oak foudres before bottling in July 2020.
On the nose expect deep aroma of loamy redcurrant, smoked meat, black plum and new leather. The palate delivers baked plum skin, licorice, roasted herbs and a minerally crushed‑rock texture. Bright acidity lifts the fruit while the firm tannin structure carries to a long savoury finish of wood smoke, dried cherries and graphite.
This is a wine built to age, but approachable now for those seeking richness and finesse. At americanwine.club we recommend decanting for 30‑60 minutes and pairing with slow‑braised lamb shank, herbed duck breast or vegetarian cassoulet. Serve at 16‑18 °C.