From: Pasa Robles, California
Varietal: Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussane, Marsanne, Clairette Blanche
Taste & Critical Acclaim: Producer’s Official Tasting Note: “A nose of minty nectarine complicated by pink grapefruit pith and a little sweet wheatgrass nuttiness. On the palate, the first impression is creamy, like vanilla custard, then bright with apricot fruit and meyer lemon brightness. The pithy bite comes back out on the finish, which combines with the wine's refreshing acids to make a long, clean finish with lingering notes of stone fruit and sweet green herbs.”
“The 2020 Patelin de Tablas Blanc is a very expressive blend of 40% Grenache Blanc, 21% Viognier, 19% Roussanne, 15% Marsanne and 5% Clairette Blanche. The nose features white apricot, honey and spring blossoms, with streaks of crushed stone and lime peel. The palate balances honeyed fruits and broad texture with tangy acidity and shimmery mineral character on the long finish. 2,290 cases were produced.” 93 points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Pairing: With its crisp and aromatic profile, is a versatile companion to a variety of dishes, making it a good food wine. Its affinity for seafood is pronounced, ideally pairing with classics such as Moules Marinières or a white fish with a delicate fennel sauce. The wine's bright acidity and savory undertones bring out the freshness of seafood cooked with garlic and white wine, enhancing the subtle flavors. For a refreshing contrast, try serving it alongside a green salad tossed with avocado and a zesty citrus dressing, where the wine's vibrant character complements the creamy texture of avocado and the sharpness of the citrus. With its aromatic zest, Lemon chicken finds a perfect match in this wine, as do scallops, which resonate with the wine’s mineral notes. Additionally, a light-fleshed fish topped with a tropical fruit salsa can elevate the tropical notes inherent in the Viognier and Marsanne blend, creating a harmonious and flavorful pairing.
Fennel-Steamed Mussels Provencal
By Mark Bittman
About: The Tablas Creek Vineyard is in the rolling hills of Paso Robles, California. Founded in 1989, this iconic winery has a rich history intertwining the old-world charm of the Rhône Valley in France with the vibrant terroir of California's Central Coast.
Tablas Creek Vineyard is the brainchild of two influential wine families: the Perrin family of Château de Beaucastel in France and the Haas family of Vineyard Brands in the United States. The partnership was born from a shared philosophy and a deep respect for the land and its potential to produce exceptional wine.
The Perrin family, proprietors of the renowned Château de Beaucastel in the Rhône Valley of France, have been vintners since the early 20th century. Château de Beaucastel is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation, mainly known for using all thirteen permitted Rhône varietals in their blends. The family's approach to winemaking emphasizes organic farming and, more recently, biodynamic practices, reflecting their dedication to preserving the integrity and expression of their vineyards.
On the other side of the Atlantic, the Haas family, led by Robert Haas, made their mark in the wine industry through Vineyard Brands, an importer and distributor of fine wines. Robert Haas began his career in the wine trade in the 1950s. He quickly established himself as a visionary by importing premium French wines into the United States, focusing on bringing lesser-known, high-quality wines to the American market. His profound knowledge of French wines and business acumen set the stage for a partnership with the Perrins.
