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Estate Blend
2009 Estate Blend
60% Syrah | 19% Grenache | 9% Tempranillo | 8% Zinfandel |4% Mourvedre
Rhone Report 92pts
The estate's entry level offering, the 2009 Epoch Estate Wines Estate Blend Paderewski Vineyard is the equal to a number of estate's top wine. A field blend of 60% Syrah, 19% Grenache, 9% Tempranillo, 8% Zinfandel, and 4% Mourvedre that's aged for 23 months in French oak barrels and puncheons, 23% being new, it boast an inky, opaque color to go with deep, dense aromas of black fruits, crushed stone, licorice, earth, and peppered steak like qualities on the nose. Certainly the most straight forward aromatically of the line-up, this doesn't lose much on the palate and delivers a full-bodied, balanced mouth feel, thrilling levels of polished fruit, and an overall fresh, straight up delicious profile. While I think this could age, I recommend pouring big glasses and kicking back with a smile over the coming 3-5 years. -JD
International Wine Cellar 91pts
(60% syrah, 19% grenache, 9% tempranillo, 8% zinfandel and 4% mourvedre): Bright purple. Intense raspberry and cherry aromas are lifted by notes of peppery spice and fresh rose. Lively and well-focused, with juicy red berry and bitter cherry flavors that stain the palate. Finishes with very good clarity and length, the cherry note repeating. I'd have guessed that there was more tempranillo in here. -JR
