Tablas Creek Côtes de Tablas Blanco 2017

The 2017 Côtes de Tablas Blanc from Tablas Creek Vineyard is an estate-grown white Rhône blend from the limestone-rich Adelaida District of Paso Robles. Farmed using certified organic and biodynamic practices, it draws on four classic Southern Rhône varieties to deliver a wine of genuine elegance, concentration, and freshness. With only 1,800 cases produced, it is also one of the more limited estate whites in the Tablas Creek lineup.

A Viognier-Led Blend with Depth and Structure

Tablas Creek builds this Paso Robles white Rhône blend around the floral aromatics and stone fruit richness of Viognier. The 2017 blend combines 44% Viognier, 24% Marsanne, 20% Grenache Blanc, and 12% Roussanne. Grenache Blanc adds crisp acidity and a lush mouthfeel. Marsanne and Roussanne, meanwhile, contribute structure, minerality, and spice. Each variety plays a precise role, and together they create a white with both immediate appeal and genuine complexity.

A Vintage of Concentration and Freshness

The 2017 vintage ended a prolonged drought dramatically. 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, most vigorous 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, expressive fruit.

Crafted to Preserve Aromatics and Purity

All four varieties were whole-cluster pressed and fermented in stainless steel with native yeasts only. This approach prioritizes clean, crisp flavors and preserves the vibrant aromatics that define this wine. After fermentation, the wines were racked, blended, and bottled in June 2018 following only a light cold stabilization. No heavy intervention. Just transparent, precision winemaking from a certified organic estate.

Tasting Notes: Rich, Spicy, and Mineral

On the nose, the 2017 Côtes de Tablas Blanc opens with a rich, spicy character: peach pit, Asian spices, vanilla bean, and baked earth. In the mouth, the Viognier character dominates with generous peach and melon richness. Bright Grenache Blanc acids then cut through, highlighting an appealing citrus pith element that keeps the wine focused and lively. On the finish, the lingering impression is one of mineral freshness. Drink now and over the next five years.

Outstanding Critical Recognition

Critics praised the 2017 Côtes de Tablas Blanc widely and consistently. Wine Review Online led with 94 points, calling it extremely elegant from genius winemaker Neil Collins. BevX added 93 points, noting its long, lingering finish with ripe fruit and crisp citrus. Furthermore, both Wine Spectator and Vinous awarded 92 points, while James Suckling also gave 92 points, praising its loads of freshness and vibrant acidity. Wine Advocate matched that score, describing it as full-bodied, textural, and layered. VinePair summed it up simply: seriously good American wine.

Food Pairings and Serving

At the table, this Paso Robles white Rhône blend pairs beautifully with mussels marinière, scallops, ceviche, and light fish such as halibut or sole with tropical salsa. It also works well alongside green salads with avocado and citrus dressing. Serve well chilled to highlight its signature freshness and mineral character.