2021 ESPÉRANCE ESTATE GROWN

This rich red is a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre and 15% Syrah.  Once again, this long vintage favored the later ripening Grenache and Mourvèdre that makes up the largest part of this blend, so this bottling ranks among the best Espérance that we have ever released. All the extra groundwork that now makes up our standard operating practices help to yield a rich, medium-bodied wine with aromas and flavors of ultra-ripe strawberries, black cherries, blood orange, and tart raspberries, mixed in with the spiciness of forest-floor, cinnamon and vanilla and other baking spices from the 10% new French Oak employed in the 18 month élevage. Though this wine will benefit with 1-5 years of further bottle aging, it is immensely drinkable right now with balanced tannins and a long finish.

“The 2021 Espérance is laced with dark cherry, leather, spice, mint and dried flowers. This Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah is quite the charmer. The balance of forward fruit and the brightness of the year makes for a compelling, engaging red.” 

93 Points Antonio Galloni for Vinous

“The 2021 Espérance is based on 65% Grenache with the balance Mourvèdre and Syrah, aged 18 months in used French oak. It has a juicy Côtes du Rhône-like nosed of spicy red and black fruits, peppery herbs, and spice. This carries to medium-bodied red with a round, layered mouthfeel, plenty of richness and depth, a good spine of acidity, and outstanding length. It's an undeniably delicious, balanced red that will shine over the coming 4-6 years or so.” 

91 Points Jeb Dunnuck