34% Grenache, 33% Carignan, 32% Mourvèdre, 1% Magic. This Understory reminds me of the great Grenache blends of Priorat. The western hills of Paso Robles and Priorat have a lot in common; their proximity to a large body of water (the Pacific and the Mediterranean), elevations ranging from 1000-2500 feet (305-760 meters), and unique soils (limestone in Paso and granite or llicorella in Priorat). Both regions produce some of the worlds most recognized wines. They are clearly global sweet spots for Grenache and Carignan. With 2020 Understory, a blend of roughly equal parts Grenache, Carignan, and Mourvèdre come together to create a beautiful, seamless, and textural wine. The hue is akin to Dorthy’s ruby red slippers, bright and shimmering. The aromatics are a melange of red fruits, wild herbs, fennel pollen, and toasted marshmallow. The palate is energetic and athletic, medium to full in body with a dollop of raspberry confiture. The fine tannins and texture create a striking finish. Absolutely delicious! Drink 2023- 2040
The Press:
"I loved the 2020 Understory, a gorgeous blend of 34% Grenache, 33% Carignan, 32% Mourvèdre, and what the estate calls “1% Magic.” Fermented with a touch of stems and aged 22 months in barrel, it has a brilliant perfume of kirsch and blackberry fruit as well as freshly ground pepper, spring flowers, and hints of background meatiness. This carries to a full-bodied, ultra-polished, and flawlessly balanced red with no hard edges, a vibrant, pure, elegant profile, and one heck of a great finish. It's up with the crème de la crème of the vintage and region and is going to keep for 10-12 years. Bravo!"
96 pts - Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2020 Understory lifts up with a Grenache-dominated wild strawberry and sweet spice bouquet. This washes across the palate in silken waves guided by bright acidity, with crisp red berries and exotic spices that swirl throughout. It's pleasantly floral through the long and lightly structured finale, leaving grippy tannins that tug at the senses. The 2020 is already so pretty today, yet it needs some time to integrate its sneaky tannins fully."
95+ pts - Vinous Media
