Tablas Creek Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc 2008

The Tablas Creek Vineyard Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc 2008 is a blend of three estate-grown varietals, propagated from budwood cuttings from the Château de Beaucastel estate. Roussanne provides the core richness, minerality, and flavors of honey and spice, while Grenache Blanc adds green apple and anise flavors, a lush mouthfeel and bright acids. Picpoul Blanc completes the blend, adding a saline minerality and tropical notes.

The 2008 Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc shows aromas of honeycomb and white flowers lifted by savory notes of lemon thyme and tarragon. The mouth shows rich Roussanne flavors of ripe pear, honey and spice, a rich texture reminiscent of coconut and a long, dry, slightly tropical finish. Moreso than many vintages of Esprit Blanc, the 2008 should drink well when young but will also reward time in bottle. Expect it to shine for at least the next 6-8 years.