Each week, I spotlight a wine that leaves a lasting impression—whether for its unique personality, compelling story, or the pure pleasure it brings to the glass. This week, that honor goes to the 2023 Tablas Creek Dianthus, a serious and gastronomic rosé that effortlessly commands attention and leaves a lasting impression.

Tablas Creek Vineyards

Tablas Creek Vineyard (“TCV”) stands as a pioneer in Paso Robles, celebrated for its Rhône-style wines and commitment to regenerative agriculture. This influential winery is a partnership between two revered wine families: the Perrins of Château de Beaucastel in France’s Rhône Valley and the Haases of Vineyard Brands in the United States. Founded in 1987, TCV remains a family-led endeavor, with the new generation of Haases and Perrins guiding it into an era that honors tradition while embracing innovative practices.

At the heart of TCV’s mission lies a dedication to regenerative agriculture, a philosophy they champion as essential to addressing climate and resource challenges. In 2020, TCV became the first vineyard in the United States to earn Regenerative Organic Certified™ status, and in 2022, it achieved Regenerative Organic Certified™ Gold—a testament to its leadership in sustainable viticulture.

After a long search for the perfect terroir, the Perrin and Haas families chose Paso Robles, captivated by its soil and climate’s remarkable resemblance to that of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Their commitment to authenticity led them to import vine cuttings directly from France, which they propagated and grafted on-site. These vines would lay the foundation for TCV’s 115-acre estate vineyard, certified organic since 2003.

In 2010, TCV expanded its sustainable practices by integrating biodynamic principles, adding sheep and alpacas to naturally manage the vineyards. By 2017, these efforts earned them biodynamic certification, cementing their role as trailblazers in responsible viticulture. The story of TCV is one of passion, heritage, and an unyielding commitment to sustainability—qualities that have made it a cornerstone of California’s wine landscape.

2023 Tablas Creek Dianthus

This wine is a masterful blend of 51% Mourvèdre, 38% Grenache, 8% Counoise, and 3% Cinsaut, all sourced from Tablas Creek Vineyard’s estate vineyard. Each variety traces its lineage to budwood cuttings from the famed Château de Beaucastel in the Rhône Valley.

Dianthus refers to a genus of flowering plants known for their deep pink blossoms and known colloquially to gardeners as “pinks” explains the Tablas Creek website.

Tasting Note:

Pale watermelon red with strawberry Jolly Rancher, raspberry, cherry, blood orange, juniper, savory spice and nuanced smokey notes. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and a lush texture with just a whisper of tannins. It shows juicy, delicious flavors mixed candied and ripe strawberries, raspberries, cherry, blood orange, and savory spice complicated with a nuanced saline minerality, and a very satisfying finish. 14% abv|SRP – $40|1380 Cases

The 2023 Dianthus is the epitome of a gastronomic wine. Its vibrant acidity and layered complexity make it an ideal partner for a wide array of dishes, from herbaceous Mediterranean fare to hearty autumn stews. Striking a perfect balance, it bridges the gap between red and white wine lovers with grace. Whether paired with a creamy goat cheese tart or grilled salmon, this rosé elevates every bite and transforms any meal into an occasion. And if you’re planning your Thanksgiving feast, give it a spot at the table—I think you’ll be amazed at how seamlessly it complements the diverse medley of flavors.

Note: For this rosé to truly shine, let it warm up slightly before serving. I recommend enjoying it at the same temperature as a medium-bodied white wine—between 50°F and 54°F (10°C to 12°C)—to fully appreciate its nuanced charm.