96pts Jeb Dunnuck

A blend of 46% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre, 18% Tempranillo, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Grenache, and 4% Zinfandel, the 2022 Estate Blend reveals mulled red and black fruits, spice box, Provençal herbs, and pepper, with hints of leather. It's medium to full-bodied, rich, and powerful, with a layered mouthfeel that picks up plenty of tannins on the finish. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels and puncheons (35% new), it reminds me of a great Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Drink 2025-2035.

Winemaker Notes

The  2022 Estate Blend is a descriptive homage to all the diverse characteristics brought forth from our vineyards during the 2022 vintage –dark, juicy berry fruit, lavender, leather, wet earth, tar, roasted steak, grilled herbs, licorice, and vanilla. Bold, jammy, lush, black and blue berry fruit enters the palate, flowing into a structured core built for longevity. Alongside the fruit and savory aspects, dark chocolate, coffee, and graphite notes join the expression as the wine hits the back palate and pushes sensation forward again.

Blend: 46% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre, 18% Tempranillo, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Grenache, 4% Zinfandel

About the Winery

Founded in 2004 by geologists, Bill and Liz Armstrong, Epoch has quickly developed a big reputation for handcrafted, small-production wines with abundant personalities. Under the careful care of Winemaker, Jordan Fiorentini, Epoch is committed to producing world-class wines from Rhône, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo varieties grown on their three west Paso Robles vineyards – Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. Epoch’s Tasting Room and Winery are located on the storied York Mountain which was once home to the first bonded winery on the central coast. Preserving the rich history found on this property as well as Paderewski Vineyard, a sight once owned and cherished by the late Polish Prime Minister and pianist, Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Epoch strives to carry on these legacies through their wines and the unique Epoch experience.
Through carefully managed, non-invasive farming, Epoch aims to bring the complex character of their vineyards into each bottle of wine they craft. All of Epoch's fruit comes from their three specific and unique sites: Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain Vineyards.