Winemaker Notes
100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
The top assets of this concentrated and velvety French oak–aged red are ripe plum and dark chocolate, which are complemented by notes of dried violets and plum skin–textured tannins. White pepper spices up blackberry on the finish.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The story of the Central Coast—and in particular, Paso Robles—continues to be re-written as the AVAs become more specific. The 2017 Tenshen Cabernet Sauvignon shows up with power and grace, and it is a beautiful wine. TASTING NOTES: This wine hits the palate with a gentle touch as it exudes lovely black fruit flavors and a firm presence. Pair it with an unadorned, grilled ribeye. (Tasted: March 3, 2020, San Francisco, CA)
As Paso Robles, California has soared in number of wineries and gained in popularity, Cabernet Sauvignon has firmly taken root as the region’s number one varietal. Alone, it accounts for just over 40% of plantings and is grown throughout both the western and eastern sides of the appellation. Though viticulture here dates back to the 18th century, Cabernet Sauvignon didn’t emerge as a significant grape here until the 1970’s. But since then it has definitely made up for lost time.
Legendary winemaker and consultant Andre Tchelistcheff first recognized Paso’s potential with Cabernet Sauvignon in the early 1960’s. The calcareous soil and dramatic diurnal temperature changes of Paso’s westside particularly intrigued him. Today modern winemaking techniques and focused experimentation with various clones, rootstocks and vineyard strategies optimize the region's ideal combination of soil and climate to deliver the best fruit possible.
The results are evident in the glass. Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon can be mesmerizing, with rich aromas and flavors of blackberry, cassis, black cherry, graphite, toasty oak, vanilla and spice. The structure, balance and unbridled opulence of these wines impress from first sip to last. Not surprisingly, Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignons have steadily grown in reputation, not just in the U.S., but around the world.