Carol Shelton Coquille Blanc Paso Robles 2015

The Data

Country USA

Appellation Paso Robles

Varietal White Blend

Retail Price $24

ABV 13.5%

Score 3.5 Stars/88 points

In the Glass

Appearance

Brilliant, medium green/gold color.

Aromatics

The nose is moderately intense offering scents of honeysuckle, peach, and pear with supporting notes of blanched almonds, citrus zest, and oak.

Flavor

The palate confirms the nose delivering a ripe orchard fruits-driven core with flavors of nuts and oak. The finish is long and lingering with flavors of butterscotch and oak.

Intensity & Texture

Medium-bodied and nicely balanced with an opulent texture.

Cool Factor

We so wanted this wine to earn an "A" cool grade and the blend of varietals is "A" material but the heavy oak influence mutes the typically vibrant grapes.

Value Grade

Selling in the mid-20 dollar range this unique white wine has a lot of competition.

Analysis

This unique white is crafted with a blend of 40% Grenache Blanc, 30% Roussanne, 23% Viognier, and 7% Marsanne. The dominance of Grenache Blanc had our mouth watering with the anticipation of a vibrant and crisp wine with rich fruit accents. However, the wine was barrel fermented and the oak flavors along with the malolactic fermentation creates a rich and buttery mouthfeel. The result is a texture that mirrors a California Chardonnay.

How to Enjoy

Sip chilled at happy hour.