Tablas Creek 2017 Esprit de Tablas

At americanwine.club we are proud to present the 2017 Esprit de Tablas from Tablas Creek Vineyard. This is the estate’s flagship red blend grown in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles, California, from vines propagated with cuttings from Château de Beaucastel in the Rhône Valley. The 2017 vintage saw unusually abundant rainfall in winter followed by a cooler summer with two significant heat spikes, resulting in vines that were both impressively healthy and balanced.

The blend reads 40 % Mourvèdre, 35 % Grenache, 20 % Syrah and 5 % Counoise, a true reflection of Rhône varietals but in an iconic Californian setting. The wine is fermented using native yeasts in a mix of upright wooden tanks, open‑top fermenters and stainless steel, before being aged for one year in 1,200‑gallon French oak foudres. The estate‑grown fruit is certified organic and biodynamic, reflecting Tablas Creek’s commitment to sustainable farming and terroir‑driven winemaking.

On the nose you will find deep aromas of wild red currant, smoked meat, mocha and juniper. On the palate expect rich black cherry and plum skin, licorice, roasted herbs and crushed rock texture. The lively acidity frames the fruit while the structured tannins deliver a long and rewarding finish. This is a wine with both power and finesse, made to evolve in your cellar or to be enjoyed now by those seeking depth and character.

Pair it with slow‑braised lamb, game, a richly flavoured vegetarian cassoulet or beef short ribs with provolone and olives. Serve at around 16‑18 °C and decant for 30‑60 minutes if enjoyed in its youth.