A complex and inviting nose of bramble berries, coffee beans, tobacco leaves and violets. The palate is full-bodied but fresh, with silky smooth tannins and bright acidity, showing notes of wild blackberries, dark chocolate and orange rind. Wonderfully balanced and giving. Made from a blend of 40% mourvedre, 28% grenache, 22% syrah, 4% vaccarese, 3% counoise and 3% cinsault. Drink or hold.
96 points, James Suckling (Aug 2024)
The 2022 Esprit de Tablas is 40% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache, 22% Syrah, 4% Vaccarese, 3% Counoise and 3% Cinsaut. The energetic nose displays classic aromas of decadent dark fruits, new leather, fresh herbs and bright spices within a refined, graceful package. The palate strikes a delicious balance between sumptuous, ample concentration and palpable precision, remaining tight and focused without ever approaching austerity. The finish is impressively long and multidimensional, with a beautiful balance of tight, fine tannins and very bright, clean, energetic acidity. This feels gently guided and meticulously crafted rather than polished and uniform, and I am eager to follow its development.
95 points, Matthew Luczy, Wine Advocate (Sep 2024)
There's a wide, appealing array of aromas on the nose of this blend of 40% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache, 22% Syrah, 4% Vaccarese, 3% Cinsaut and 3% Counoise, from dark strawberry and boysenberry to earthy, minty sagebrush to more candied cherry tones. Lavish strawberry, rose petal and violet flavors are rich on the palate, with hints of fennel pollen and toasted chaparral adding depth.
95 points, Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast (Apr 2025)
The 2022 Esprit de Tablas has mellowed in an enticing way, delivering a perfumed bouquet of roses, geraniums, wet slate and dried black cherries. Cooling acidity and inner violet florals impart a graceful character as a wave of tart wild berry and blackberry fruits slowly saturates. This enshrouds the palate in fine-grained tannins and wild blueberries as it finishes with excellent length and a gentle inner sweetness. The 2022 is a darling with both upfront appeal and cellar potential.
94 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (Jul 2025)
An unbelievably savoury Rhône blend that leads with Mourvèdre—aromas of gravel dust, smoky violets and a savoury, chicory root spice alongside wild green strawberries. The palate is elegant, with plenty of finesse and freshness. Salty tones of blood orange and brine mixed with a mouthful of dried, wild herbs, dried lavender and a mix of green and red peppercorns. The finish is lasting and upright; this is a delicious wine with brilliance and undeniable ageability.
94 points, Clive Pursehouse, Decanter (Oct 2024)
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