Paso Robles has become the center for growing Rhone grape varieties in California, so it’s easy to understand why the Italian ones have slip under the radar. Fact is, though, Sangiovese, Primitivo, and Nebbiolo can all thrive in the region. John Backer and Jill Zamborelli Backer realized Paso’s potential over ten years ago when they purchased 40 acres of rolling hills in Creston and set out to bring the best of California and Italy together. The wines they produce today balance the grapes’ hearty Italian heritage with California’s trademark rich fruit flavor, and it’s one happy marriage.

 

Grape(s): Primitivo

Winery: August Ridge

Region: Paso Robles

Year: 2009

Price: 30-35

Review:

A bouquet of cherries, strawberries, sweet spice, and vanilla greet the senses. A sip unfurls lively red berry flavors that meld with highlights of black pepper and oak. A fairly light wine, with a nice balance of fruit and spice, if you’re a fan of Zinfandel, give this bottle a try. Enjoy now. Only 145 cases produced.

Rating: 90

Grape(s): 95% Nebbiolo & 5% Merlot

Winery: August Ridge

Region: Paso Robles

Year: 2007

Price: 30-35

Review:

Aromatics of cherries, plums, and boysenberries meld with suggestions of spice and earth on the nose. The palate delivers flavors of cherries and baked currants with accents of pepper, earth, and rose petals. A lighter red (as the result of some age) that offers smooth fruit with a highlight of spice, it’s a bottle worth exploring with any number of mushroom dishes, seared tuna, or pork. Cases Produced: 256

Rating: 88

Grape(s): 91% Sangiovese & 9% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery: August Ridge

Region: Paso Robles

Year: 2006

Price: 25-30

Review:

Aromas of cherries, plums, and blackberry jam come together with suggestions of sweet spice on the nose. Flavors of cherry and bramble fruit meld with notes of clove, spice, and dark chocolate. A smooth, very approachable wine, that’s mellowed nicely with some age, if you enjoy light, layered reds this bottle is right up your ally. Cases Produced: 342

Rating: 89