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Rhone grape varieties grown in California produce some lovely white and rosé wines. They tend to be lively, floral, and bright, which makes them ideal to drink during the warmest months of the year. Here are a few from Paso Robles, a prime area in the state for top-notch Rhone-style blends, that are sure to enhance any summer meal or gathering.
Niner Estates 2013 “Silhouette Du Coeur” Blend
Grape(s): 43% Marsanne, 32% Grenache Blanc, & 25% Roussanne
Region: Paso Robles
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of apricot and citrus fruits along with floral suggestions greets the senses. Flavors of tangerine and apricot blend with nuances of white-blossoms, minerals, and honey on the palate. A flavorful white, with a fresh mineral backbone, enjoy a bottle with pork or white fish. 325 cases produced.
Rating: 89
Vina Robles 2013 Roseum
Grape(s): 94% Syrah & 6% Viognier
Region: Paso Robles
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
Fragrances of ripe red fruit and butterscotch greets the senses. Flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and raspberry meld with hints of butterscotch on the palate. A mouth-filling rosé, with ample fruit and a bit of sweetness, it will pair nicely with grilled chicken or crab cakes. 714 cases were made.
Rating: 87
J. Lohr 2013 “RVG” White Blend
Grape(s): 48% Roussanne, 36% Grenache Blanc, 16% Viognier,
Region: Paso Robles
Price: 25-30
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of apricot, pear, and white-blossoms mingle with hints of honey and apple-butter on the nose. The palate reveals flavors of pear, apricot, and lemon accented by creamy and nutty suggestions. A full-bodied white, with a welcoming acidity, this is not your run-of-the-mill California Rhone blend. 433 cases produced.
Rating: 89
Midnight Cellars 2012 “Aurora” White Blend
Grape(s): 54% Viognier, 26% Picpoul Blanc, 15% Grenache Blanc, & 5% Marsanne
Region: Paso Robles
Price: 25-30
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of tropical fruit, melon, and peach interweave with floral notes on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of honeydew, banana, and peach mingle with notes of lemon-custard, orange-blossoms, and sweet spice. A rich, round white, with a balanced acidity, enjoy a bottle with your favorite Thai dish. 220 cases were made.
Rating: 88
Cass 2011 “Rockin’ One” Blend
Grape(s): 56% Viognier, 22% Marsanne, 22% Roussanne
Region: Paso Robles
Price: 30-35
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of tropical fruit and peach meld with suggestions of caramel and springtime flowers on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of peach, mango, and lemon along with accents of minerals and spice. Slightly creamy but still offing a bright acidity, it’s ideal for summer and shellfish.
Rating: 90
