90+ 2008 Tablas Creek Cotes de Tablas Blanc (Paso Robles) 11/4/11 ($18)
42 % Viognier, 26% Rousanne, 21% Marsanne, 11% GrenacheBlanc 13.5%alc
Color: Light gold with a tint of green. (3.0) Bouquet: Beeswax, honeysuckle and green apple propelled by acidity and minerals with some brown sugar thrown in. (3.5) Body: Heavyweight with excellent fruit and acidity. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but has some bitter licorice and the brown sugar component is a little overbearing at this point. (2.5) Finish: Parallels flavor. (2.5)
Overall: Shows a surprising level of quality for the price, but needs some time (2-3 years) to calm down and let the bitter licorice and brown sugar integrate. Even now it's a joy with food. (15)