Bushong Tannat Paso Robles 2022 750ml
Description
In a region dominated by Rhône varieties and Cabernet Sauvignon, Bushong’s dedication to Tannat represents a bold statement about Paso Robles’ potential for lesser-known varieties. Originally from Southwest France and now Uruguay’s signature grape, Tannat thrives in Paso’s warm days and cool nights, developing extraordinary concentration while maintaining the structure that makes it one of the world’s most age-worthy varieties. The 2022 vintage showcases Tannat at its most expressive, with perfectly ripe tannins that have been expertly managed to create approachability without sacrificing the variety’s characteristic power.
The color is nearly opaque, the darkest purple-black that seems to absorb light rather than reflect it. The nose is immediately impressive—blackberry compote and dark plum jam provide the fruit foundation, while layers of complexity emerge through notes of violet, graphite, and dark chocolate. There’s a meaty, almost iron-like quality that speaks to Tannat’s legendary concentration, alongside more subtle notes of espresso, licorice root, and crushed herbs. Given time to breathe, the wine reveals additional layers of cigar box, black olive tapenade, and exotic spices.
The palate delivers everything the color and nose promise—this is a wine of remarkable density and power, yet with a sophistication that elevates it beyond mere strength. The tannins, Tannat’s calling card, are certainly present but have been masterfully integrated through careful extraction and aging. They provide a firm backbone that supports waves of dark fruit, unsweetened cocoa, and roasted coffee beans. The texture is almost chewy, with a viscosity that coats every surface of the mouth. Mid-palate reveals unexpected brightness through notes of black cherry and pomegranate that prevent the wine from becoming monolithic.
Bushong’s approach to Tannat involves extended maceration and aging in a combination of new and neutral oak, allowing the variety’s natural intensity to shine while adding layers of complexity. The result is a wine that captures Tannat’s essential character—its power, concentration, and tannic structure—while demonstrating that in the right hands, this variety can produce wines of remarkable finesse. This is not a wine that tries to hide its strength but rather celebrates it with intelligence and skill.
The finish is extraordinarily long and evolving, with tannins that gradually release their grip while flavors of dark fruit, earth, and spice continue to resonate. There’s a warming quality that spreads through the chest, accompanied by lingering notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and dried herbs. This is a wine built for the long haul, capable of aging for decades, yet with enough balance to be enjoyed now with appropriately robust food. Pair with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, or aged hard cheeses where its intensity can be properly appreciated.
- Producer
- Bushong
