Had the non-vintage Austin Hope Troublemaker (Blend 2), Paso Robles tonight with a devilishly good grilled flank steak with charmoula sauce. A blend of 73% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 8% Petite Sirah and 7% Mourvedre, the Troublemaker shows a vibrant cranberry color in the glass. Primal, tart cherry and raspberry aromas gradually give way to licorice notes. Quite acidic on the palate with well-defined raspberry, black pepper and leathery flavors. Moderately tannic with no trace of oak. Clipped finish. A bit tart and acidic to enjoy as a sipper, but the mouth-watering acidity leaves you begging for another sip after each bite of food. Nice, atypical, food-friendly Paso blend for under $20
I'll be in Paso in 2 weeks. I'm not sure we'll be able to hit this one due to their hours, but there is a tasting room in downtown Paso (or there was the last time I was there) that has a big chance of having some of their wines. I'm going to keep an eye out!
ReplyDeleteHave a great time, Claire. I'm jealous!
ReplyDeleteNot sure if you need any more advice for your itinerary, but if I went back, I'd definitely hit up Terry Hoage, Dunning, Pipestone, Adelaida, Jada, Zenadia, Linne Calodo, Four Vines, Tobin James and Tablas Creek.
I wouldn't bother going back to Clautiere, Rotta, Midnight Cellars, Martin-Weyrich, Peachy Canyon or Whalebone.
Robert Hall and Vina Robles are good stops, but very different (in the garish, overblown sense) than most Paso wineries.
Let me know if you want restaurant suggestions or anything else.
Bill