The 2021 Patelin is a Rhône-style blend of 54 percent Grenache blanc, 29 percent Viognier, 9 percent Marsanne, 7 percent Roussanne, and 1 percent Bourboulenc (and yes, 1 percent can make a difference). All grapes were whole-cluster pressed and fermented in stainless steel with ambient yeasts. The lots were racked, blended, and bottled in May 2022.
It’s pale yellow-gold with a greenish cast, and the Viognier hits first, yielding a flowery apricot and lily of the valley fragrance. Then the herbal notes sink in: fresh basil, that lime peel quality of (not overripe) Grenache blanc. The Marsanne and Roussanne feel like they add satiny texture more than aromatics. The flavors overall suggest stone and pome fruits, but it’s not a plush wine, as the modest alcohol suggests. There’s good acidity at the finish, a pop of lemon-lime that is absent is so many white Rhône grapes (and blends) from warm regions.
Lively and delicious with lighter fare. Try seafood, poultry, salads, young cheeses, chickpeas, and dishes with ginger, citrus, or avocado.
2021 Tablas Creek Vineyard Patelin de Tablas Blanc Paso Robles
12.5% ABV | $28 (sample)
