White Grape Barrage From Paso Robles

Tablas Creek Vineyard in Paso Robles was founded by the Perrin family of Château de Beaucastel and Robert Haas of Vineyard Brands.  They are dedicated to the grape varieties of the Rhône Valley.

They say the wine "marries the richness and vibrancy of Grenache Blanc with the richness and aromatics of Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne and the tropical fruit and minerality of Vermentino and Picpoul Blanc."

The grapes for the 2024 vintage of Patelin de Tablas came from 16 of Paso Robles' top vineyards that specialize in Rhône-style varieties. The breakdown is 40% Grenache Blanc, 29% Viognier, 10% Vermentino, 8% Roussanne, 7% Marsanne, and 6% Picpoul Blanc. Alcohol tips 13.5% abv and it retails for $30.

This wine gives a pale golden color in the glass. The nose is more subdued than I expected. There is lemon, mango, almond, and minerality available to smell. The palate is more forceful, and a delight besides. Citrus minerals are joined by salinity and a racy acidity, which begs for a food pairing. Seafood is a natural pairing choice, but I loved it with dolmas and hummus. 

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