Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Justin loved the Grenache in 2016 (he did 6 Grenache dominated cuvées in the vintage) and his 2016 Terry Hoage Vineyard is a downright exotic, sexy red that give up tons of blood orange, plums, blackberries, mint and spice aromas and flavors. Rich, voluptuous and unquestionably sumptuous, it’s going to be a great vintage for this cuvée. The blend is 43% each of Grenache and Syrah, with the balance Mourvèdre. Rating 96-98.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
2018 will be the last vintage of the Terry Hoage Vineyard, as it was ripped out due to red blotch. This 2016 Terry Hoage Vineyard is made up of 43% Grenache, 43% Syrah and 14% Mataro. It was made with 21% whole cluster and aged 19 months in 77% foudres and 23% new oak. Medium ruby colored, it's scented of red and black cherries, raspberries and wild blackberries with nuances of pink peppercorn, underbrush and autumn leaves. Medium-bodied, it has bright fruits with a grainy frame and just enough freshness, finishing a tad warm.
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Wine Spectator
Deeply structured, with a simmering potency, this red offers blackberry and blueberry flavors, accented by stony minerality and smoked pepper and licorice notes, building tension toward big but refined tannins. Syrah, Grenache and Mataro. Best from 2021 through 2029.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Growing on high elevation bedrock slopes, the vineyards of Paso Robles Willow Creek AVA sit at between 960 and 1,900 feet in elevation.