2013 Qupé Red Blend A Modern Red Central Coast

A Rhône Ranger blend, about three-quarters Syrah and one-quarter Grenache, but with a dash of swarthy Mourvèdre. The fruit was grown in vineyards in the south Central Coast—Paso Robles, Edna Valley, Santa Maria, and Santa Ynez—and lots were vinified separately, although all of them spent 16 months in neutral French oak prior to the final assemblage.

The wine’s a little closed at first (not uncommon for new wines under screw cap), but after twenty minutes or so in a decanter it opens its cloak, revealing black licorice, bitter cherry, and a kind of smoked tea top note. It’s suave but a little bit brooding, too, with tart red fruits and lavender-leaf astringency adding polish to earthy, resonant black fruit bass notes. Pair with smoked, broiled, charred, and grilled whatever.

13.5% abv | $17 (sample)

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