Lone Madrone Tannat Paso Robles 2019 750ml
Description
Lone Madrone Tannat Paso Robles 2019 750ml
Discover the bold character of Lone Madrone’s 2019 Tannat, a wine that embodies the untamed spirit of Paso Robles. This limited-production offering captures the essence of one of the world’s most distinctive wine regions in every glass.
Cultivated in the western hills of Paso Robles, where the Pacific influence creates dramatic diurnal temperature swings—warm sun-drenched days followed by cool foggy nights—this Tannat develops exceptional complexity while maintaining vibrant acidity. The calcareous limestone soils unique to this region impart a distinct minerality that balances the wine’s robust structure, creating a harmony rarely found in Tannats from other regions.
The 2019 vintage was particularly noteworthy for Paso Robles. A cooler growing season allowed for extended hang time, resulting in grapes with intensified flavor concentration while retaining elegant balance. Lone Madrone’s sustainable farming practices further enhance the terroir expression, allowing the vineyard’s voice to speak clearly through minimal intervention winemaking.
Upon pouring, this Tannat reveals a profound depth of color—an inky garnet with purple highlights that cling to the glass. The nose opens with an intriguing array of black fruits—wild blackberry and mulberry—complemented by notes of spice box, dried herbs, and a subtle hint of chaparral, reflecting the native vegetation surrounding the vineyard.
On the palate, the wine delivers a powerful yet refined experience. The limestone-influenced structure provides a framework for concentrated flavors of black plum, dark cherry, and cracked pepper. Secondary notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and savory herbs unfold with each sip. The characteristic tannins of Tannat are present but beautifully integrated—firm yet velvety—a direct result of the region’s unique combination of soil and climate that allows this traditionally austere varietal to show its more sophisticated side.
The finish is remarkably long and complex, with waves of dark fruit giving way to earthy minerality and spice. This persistent conclusion speaks to the wine’s aging potential, though it offers immediate pleasure when decanted.
As Lone Madrone’s winemaker Neil Collins notes, “Our Tannat expresses what makes Paso Robles special—it carries the intensity you expect from the varietal but with a refinement that comes only from our specific terroir. We’re not trying to replicate the Tannats of France or Uruguay; we’re capturing what this grape can be in our corner of California.”
Pair this exceptional wine with hearty fare—braised short ribs, wild game, or aged cheeses—to complement its structure and depth. For the adventurous, try with dark chocolate desserts to experience a fascinating interplay of flavors.
This limited-production Tannat represents a unique opportunity to experience one of Paso Robles’ most distinctive expressions. With only a small quantity produced, it offers both collectors and enthusiasts a chance to discover what makes this region’s interpretation of Tannat so remarkable.
- Producer
- Lone Madrone
