Tablas Creek Côtes de Tablas 2017

The 2017 Côtes de Tablas from Tablas Creek Vineyard is a focused and energetic Rhône-style red blend from Paso Robles, grown on the certified organic and biodynamic estate in the Adelaida District. Limestone-rich soils and careful farming give this wine its signature structure, freshness, and clear sense of place.

A Blend Rooted in Southern Rhône Tradition
Tablas Creek builds this Paso Robles Rhône blend around the generous fruit and refreshing acidity of Grenache. The 2017 Côtes de Tablas combines 53% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 12% Counoise, and 10% Mourvèdre. Syrah adds spice and mineral depth. Counoise contributes briary wildness and lift. Mourvèdre, meanwhile, anchors the blend with structure and savory character. Together, the four varieties create something genuinely greater than the sum of their parts.

A Vintage Defined by Contrast
The 2017 vintage ended a long drought with force. Tablas Creek received 43 inches of rain, including its rainiest January ever. The wet soils delayed budbreak to a normal timeframe and produced one of the healthiest vineyards the estate had seen in years. The summer started cool, then two heat spikes in early July and late August accelerated ripening and built intensity. Consequently, the vintage delivers a compelling combination of concentration and freshness, with bright acidity framing powerful, vivid fruit.

Crafted with Native Yeasts and Patience
The team fermented all four varieties separately with native yeasts in a mix of stainless steel and wooden upright fermenters. After pressing, the wines were racked and blended in June 2018. They then aged for a full year in 1,200-gallon French oak foudres before bottling in February 2019. This approach preserves varietal character while building the texture and depth the wine needs to evolve.

Tasting Notes: Bright, Structured, and Energetic
On the nose, the 2017 Côtes de Tablas opens with red plum, strawberry, and sumac, alongside notes of dusty earth, garrigue, and sage. In the mouth, bright red fruit takes the lead. Juicy acidity and a firm, chalky texture add structure and precision. On the finish, herb flavors and cracked pepper linger with excellent energy. Drink now and over the next decade.

Critical Recognition
Critics responded enthusiastically to this vintage. Wine Enthusiast awarded 94 points and named it Editors’ Choice, calling it a lovely wine where the palate snaps with acidity and chalky texture. Furthermore, Wine Advocate awarded 92 points, praising its bright berry fruit and firm, chalky frame. Wine Spectator added 90 points, highlighting its refined and harmonious character. Few Paso Robles red blends at this level earn such consistent recognition across publications.

Food Pairings and Serving
At the table, this Paso Robles Rhône blend pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, sausage ragù, cassoulet, roasted poultry, and aged cheese. It also works well alongside charcuterie and herb-crusted dishes. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. Decant for 30 minutes when young to open up the full aromatic complexity.