Epoch Estate Blend Red Blend Paso Robles 2019 750ml
DescriptionNestled in the undulating hills of Paso Robles, where morning fog gives way to sun-drenched afternoons and cool evenings, Epoch Estate Wines stands as a testament to patient transformation. Founded by geologists Bill and Liz Armstrong, Epoch's journey began in 2004 with the acquisition of the historic York Mountain property—California's first bonded winery outside of Sonoma and Napa. The Armstrong vision wasn't merely to make wine but to let the land speak through each bottle.
The 2019 Estate Blend represents the culmination of this philosophy—a wine that emerges from carefully tended vineyards where sustainable farming practices allow each varietal to express its purest character. Winemaker Jordan Fiorentini, known for her intuitive approach and artistic sensibility, orchestrates this symphony of Rhône varieties with a deft hand, creating a blend that honors both tradition and innovation.
As you pour the 2019 Estate Blend, a cascade of deep garnet with purple highlights catches the light, hinting at the experience to come. The first encounter reveals a bouquet that unfolds like a conversation among old friends—blackberry preserves and sun-warmed blueberries exchange pleasantries with whispers of savory herbs and the subtle spice of fresh-cracked peppercorns. There's an intriguing undercurrent of crushed stone and graphite, a nod to the limestone-rich soils of Paso Robles that give Epoch wines their distinctive mineral backbone.
On the palate, this Estate Blend presents a masterful balance of power and finesse. The initial impression offers generous black fruit—ripe blackberries and plums dipped in dark chocolate—before revealing layers of complexity: dried violets, star anise, and a touch of wild sage that grows abundantly on the estate. The texture is at once silky and substantial, with fine-grained tannins providing structure without overwhelming the fruit's natural vibrancy. The finish lingers with notes of espresso, dried cherries, and a subtle smokiness that invites contemplation.
What distinguishes the 2019 vintage is its exceptional balance—a year that provided ideal growing conditions, allowing for perfect phenolic ripeness while maintaining crucial acidity. Unlike many Paso Robles blends that lean heavily on power and extraction, Epoch's Estate Blend prioritizes elegance and site expression, making it both approachable now and capable of evolving beautifully over the next decade.
This wine finds its perfect companions in dishes that match its complexity: herb-crusted lamb, wild mushroom risotto, or even a simple plate of aged cheeses and charcuterie. It's equally at home as the centerpiece of a special gathering or as a contemplative evening companion.
The 2019 Estate Blend isn't merely a wine; it's a liquid landscape that captures a specific moment in time and place—the essence of Paso Robles terroir expressed through the thoughtful stewardship of passionate vintners. Each bottle invites you to slow down, to savor, and to discover the remarkable story that unfolds with every sip.
