If only we could hop in a time machine back to the Middle Ages and present a blind taste of this to her highness, Eleanor of Aquitaine, she, as the queen who opened the doors to Bordeaux, would reward us with riches untold for delivering the finest example of the region… albeit from Paso Robles - hence costing a mere fraction of its modern-day counterparts!

The gorgeous appearance showcases the appeal of a classic claret, with scarlet highlights. Seeped plum, black cherry, cassis, cocoa powder, and lead pencil are evident on the nose. Bright, juicy acidity is the first to impress on the palate, with refined tannins, along with hints of truffle and game. Impressively long on the noble finish, with zesty notes of rosemary and black pepper. A porcini mushroom risotto with generous shavings of Parmigiano would be the ultimate accompaniment.

From start to finish, this wine shows not only class and refinement but also rich and intense fruit still, given its age. It’s at peak to enjoy now though could easily last another decade and continue to improve. A hidden gem with impeccable balance, presenting a rarely seen side of restraint from Paso Robles, famous for its intense reds and a similarly unpredictably austere side of Merlot and how seriously good it can be. At this price, you should not hesitate to pile up!

The small-production Doce Robles Winery is the very first winery to have appeared on the now winery-heavy Highway 46. Doce Robles’ neighbors include the likes of Peachy Canyon, Sextant and Castoro Cellars… to name just a few. Doce Robles planted their vineyards in 1996 to Barbera, Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Primitivo, Petite Sirah, and Malbec were also planted in 2010 and 2012.