Wines Central Coast Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas Adelaida District Paso Robles 2022 - 2022

Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas Adelaida District Paso Robles 2022 is a captivating red wine from California’s renowned Central Coast AVA, specifically within the prestigious Adelaida District of Paso Robles. The Esprit de Tablas is inspired by the grand wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and is typically a blend of Rhône varietals such as Mourvèdre, Grenache, Syrah, and Counoise. The 2022 vintage benefited from a temperate growing season, allowing for slow and even ripening. The terroir, characterised by calcareous soils and significant diurnal temperature swings, imparts both depth and freshness to the wine. Traditional winemaking techniques with minimal intervention are employed, including native yeast fermentation and ageing in large French oak foudres, allowing the grape varieties and place to shine.

Paso Robles, and particularly the Adelaida District, is famed for its undulating hills, ancient seabed soils, and a unique climate moderated by Pacific breezes. The region receives warm days that promote rich, ripe fruit flavours, yet the nights cool dramatically, preserving vital acidity and aromatics. Paso Robles has risen to prominence over the past few decades, in part due to pioneering producers like Tablas Creek, who imported cuttings from France and focused on authenticity and environmental stewardship.

Given its layered structure and aromatic complexity, this wine pairs beautifully with robust, flavourful dishes. Consider serving it with slow-cooked lamb shoulder seasoned with rosemary and garlic, traditional Provençal daubes, or a classic American barbecue brisket. Grilled root vegetables or mushroom risotto can also make excellent vegetarian companions, echoing the savoury notes of the blend. If you wish to keep the pairing local, a Santa Maria-style tri-tip would be exceptional.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Esprit de Tablas at 16-18°C, which will allow its bouquet of dark red fruits, spice, and earthy undertones to unfurl gracefully. Ideally, decant the wine for an hour before serving to further enhance its aromatic profile and texture. This is a wine with fine ageing potential, but it also offers immediate pleasure when thoughtfully presented.