Each week, I spotlight a wine that truly captivates—whether for its distinctive character, fascinating story, or the sheer delight it brings to the glass. This week’s feature is the 2019 Tablas Creek Vineyard Côtes de Tablas, a remarkable Southern Rhône-inspired blend from Paso Robles—a region that holds a special place in my heart and would be my top pick in California if I ever had to choose. Thankfully, I don’t have to make that choice!

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.

2019 Cotes de Tablas

The Côtes de Tablas line perfectly bridges the gap between Tablas Creek’s flagship Esprit de Tablas wines and their approachable, entry-level Patelin de Tablas range. Grapes for these wines are selected from lots chosen for their charm and approachability, crafted to be enjoyable upon release yet capable of aging gracefully for a decade or more. This blend, composed of four estate-grown Rhône varieties—Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, and Mourvèdre—is aged in 1,200-gallon French oak foudres. As described on the Tablas Creek website, it captures the essence of Southern Rhône wines, with Grenache taking the lead, showcasing its generous fruit and lively acidity. Syrah adds layers of spice and minerality, Counoise brings a briary, wild character, and Mourvèdre provides structure, culminating in a wine of impeccable balance and moderate complexity.

Tasting note: Pale ruby with enticing aromas of red cherry, strawberry, redcurrant, spice, bramble, and licorice. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and very fresh with well integrated fine-grained tannins with red cherry, strawberry hard candy, red currant, rooibos tea, licorice flavors with a captivating mix of baking spice and subtle dried herbs. Long finish. 44% Grenache/30% Syrah/17% Counoise/9% Mourvedre. 14% abv| SRP – $45|92pts

This wine paired beautifully with homemade Vegan Red Bean and Chorizo Stew! Tablas Creek suggests pairing with:

• Pastas with meat sauces
• Rich beef stews
• Spicy sausages (Mmm…Lockeford Sausage Smoked Brats anyone?)

It’s been far too long since I last enjoyed a Côtes de Tablas wine, and this bottle was a delightful reminder of just how flavorful, beautifully structured, and effortlessly food-friendly these wines can be! Highly recommended!