2011 Booker Remnant 22

Another extended barrel aged effort, the 2011 Remnant 22 (same blend as the regular cuvee) looks smoking good. Also slightly more lifted and perfumed, it dishes out beautiful aromas and flavors of cassis, raspberry, flowers and copious spice box qualities that give way to a full, rich 2011 that has superb mid-palate depth, sweet tannin and a big finish. Loaded with promise, I think it will actually be a better wine than the regular release. It will have an easy decade or more of longevity. Drink 2015-2021. Known for producing decadently rich and textured wines, proprietor Eric Jenson continues to show his winemaking skill and talent with these distinctly fresh, focused 2011s (his 2010s were also in the same ball park stylistically). All of the wines reviewed here are brilliant and this estate has quickly become one of the reference points for Paso Robles. Don’t miss these wines! While most of Eric’s wines are ready to go on release, these 2011s will all benefit from short-term cellaring. Tel. (805) 237-7367; www.bookerwines.com

The 2011 Remnant is gorgeous. Pomegranate, orange peel, cloves, menthol and licorice all add shades of exotic complexity as this full-bodied, explosive wine opens up in the glass. The style is surprisingly soft and voluptuous for the year. Many producers in California eschew press juice in their blends. Eric Jensen, on he other hand, decided to bottle all of that juice, giving birth to the appropriately and colorfully named Remnant. In 2011, Remnant is 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre.