2020 Tempranillo
Located on the west side of the Salinas Valley, the Arroyo Seco appellation is uniquely characterized by an ancient riverbed (arroyo seco means ‘dry river’) surrounded by alluvial benchlands. Well-drained, stone-laden soil and cool coastal influence from nearby Monterey Bay yield grapes with concentrated flavor and balanced acidity.
The grapes were hand sorted in the vineyard and again at the winery before being completely destemmed. Whole berries were fermented in small open-top tanks. Gentle punch-downs provided for optimum extraction, while maintaining an elegantly structured wine. The wine was aged for ten months in 25% new French oak.
The 2020 Tempranillo has a beautiful garnet color with aromas of black cherry, boysenberry, and toasted vanilla. On the palate it displays lingering flavors of smoked meat, leather, and mocha. This wine features a full body, sweet tannins, and medium acidity — delicious by itself or paired with full-flavored grilled meats and aged cheeses.
Wine Specs
93 Points - Editors' Choice
"This is an energetic and refreshing style of Tempranillo, rarely seen in California. Aromas of lively boysenberry and wet stone lead into a palate where leathery tannins give structure to the juicy fruit, peppery spices and ample acidity."
- Matt Kettmann, November 2022
91 Points
"Cool climate Tempranillo is an unusual find in the USA, though the variety’s early ripening is exactly why it is planted in cool portions of Spain with compact growing seasons. This Tempranillo exhibits the kind of concentration that comes from low yields and in the vineyard, shown here as typical grapey character enhanced by notes of cherry, vanilla and cocoa. It’s ready to drink, and it’s priced right." - Rich Cook, August 2022
90 Points
"Resting for 10 months in 100% French oak, with 25% being new, this lovely Tempranillo displays a dark ruby purple in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, blue plum, cedary herbs, vanilla bean, and scorched earth are all present. The palate delivers flavors of black pepper, roasted meat, and a touch of leather. Mouthwatering acidity, a medium to full-body, and grippy tannins complete the wine." - Jeremy Young, June 2022