The blend of the 2023 Esprit de Tablas is 33% Mourvèdre, 31% Syrah, 26% Grenache, 6% Cinsaut, 2% Vaccarese and 2% Counoise, representing the closest percentage of the three main varieties in the cuvée's history. Poised and compelling from the outset, the nose seamlessly melds red and black fruits, fresh herbs and purple flower aromas with an underlying earth-tinged, petrichor quality. The palate is similarly multidimensional, dynamically delivering a suave yet snappy profile with juicy, mouthwatering acidity and palpable minerality that carries through the savory, refined finish. This is a reference point for the region and should enjoy a solid 15 years in the cellar.
96 points, Matthew Luczy, Wine Advocate (Oct 2025)
Savory, well-spiced and meaty, showing plums and warm figs, sanguine flavors and black licorice. Outstanding posture and length with harmony between the scorched earth and blackberries, cherry pits and cured olives. Best after 2028 and for the next several decades.
96 points, James Suckling (Aug 2025)
The 2023 Esprit de Tablas cascades from the glass with violet and lavender tones, tart blackberry and spice. It keeps the energy high throughout, displaying a vibrant core of ripe wild berries and citrus as tactile mineral tones saturate the palate under an air of violet inner florals. It finishes long, staining yet still fresh, with a cascade of inner florals and citrus-tinged accents. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting the 2023 on multiple occasions and continue to be thoroughly impressed. This is a fantastic vintage for Esprit.
95 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (Apr 2026)
From the Esprit de Tablas line, this flagship red blend showcases estate biodynamic and ROC-certified fruit from Tablas Creek’s top vineyard lots. The nose is framed by dark red fruits of cranberries and plums, then lifted by subtle woody and leathery notes. On the palate, balance reigns: bright acidity, length, fruit concentration, body, and a thread of minerality that cuts through the core. Notes of cola remind us we are in Paso Robles. A layered and contemplative wine.
94 points, Brianne Cohen, Decanter (Aug 2025)
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