Tablas Creek 2011 Espirit De Blanc
A really cool, light amber or cider color to this juice. It’s full of apricot and honey notes that are delightful. The nose is so enticing, that I found it odd that the palate was ironically absent to start. Its almost as if it took a minute for my palate to get wind of the juices arrival. Odd but cool sensation so wait for it.
The apricot finally reappears on the palate coupled with some fun acids makes for an enjoyable ride. It is extremely well made and on this warm early summer afternoon, it was just what the doctor ordered. It was great served ice cold. It’s rare that I finish a generous pour when I’m out tasting. Tasting so many wines in a day requires a little will power to stay focused. This little guy twisted my arm and I polished it off before I had finished reviewing it. Oops. I obviously asked for a bit more. Fun adventure.
Retail: $27
(K&S Rating: 4 of 6)
Winemaker Notes: “The 2011 Esprit de Tablas Blanc is a classic Esprit Blanc, with aromatics dominated by non-fruit descriptors: mineral, sea spray, grilled bread and a hint of non-toasted oak. The mouth is dramatically rich and broad, with the vintage’s acidity showing in the front palate, rich Roussanne in the mid-palate, and a hint of tannin from the Grenache Blanc on the long, nutty finish. A fascinating combination of rich and very dry. Still a baby, this is a serious white to age for up to 15 years or more.”
