2011 Villa Creek The Avenger

The 2011 The Avenger is a blend of 60% Syrah, 20% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre. Very ripe, with plenty of red plum, melted licorice, baking spices and roasted herb showing on the nose, it starts out rich and decadent on the palate before firming up considerably on the mid-palate and finish, with big, chewy tannin. The structure just might be too much for the depth of fruit here so this will be one to watch as it evolves. Nevertheless, it’s certainly a solid bottle of wine, just not one I’d hide in the cellar for too long. If the tannin softens here, I’ll have underrated it. Drink 2014-2018. One of my favorite estates, Cris Cherry’s Villa Creek is located on the western side of Paso Robles, high up off Peachy Canyon Road. He continues to experiment with Rhone and increasingly Spanish (think Rioja and Priorat) varieties, as well as with varying amount of whole-cluster inclusion. The wines offer singular, unique profiles, with loads of flavor and character. Tel. (805) 238-7145; www.villacreekwine.com

The 2011 Avenger is one of the most harmonious wines of the year. Rich, dark, sumptuous, yet impeccably balanced, it boasts superb depth and fabulous overall balance. The 50% whole clusters are totally integrated with the luxurious voluptuous fruit here. A stunning, totally vivid wine, the 2011 Avenger is firing on all cylinders today. The 2011 is 60% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre and 20% Grenache, fermented with 50% whole clusters.