2007 - Esprit de Beaucastel, Tablas Creek, Paso Robles

Darkly floral and brooding in the glass, the 2007 Esprit de Beaucastel wafts up with a mix of savory herbs, dried flowers, soy nuances and dusty earth. It opens with a burst of zesty acidity, a tinge of CO2 and a reverberation of tension as ripe red berry fruits swirl under an air of violet inner florals. Hints of spice mix with blood orange as the 2007 finishes a bit short and still lightly tannic. The 2007 has sporadically shown Brettanomyces over the years, reflected in the effervescence found in most bottles. With that said, decanting or opening the wine well ahead of consumption should help.