Tablas Creek 2012 Picpoul Blanc Paso Robles

• TABLAS CREEK 2012 PICPOUL BLANC PASO ROBLES :

This pretty Rhone white is so well balanced, it’s delicious on its own and with food. A delicate white, much like Roussanne, this is winemaker Neil Collin’s sixth vintage at making this Southern Rhone varietal. With above average yields in 2012 the hang-time until ripeness was long and resulted in brighter notes of tropical fruit and bright lemony notes. I found it his best effort yet. The winemaking team recommends pairing it with fried calamari, Dover sole, swordfish, ceviche, or tangy citrus-based Thai foods. Available at the tasting room for $27 (lower prices for club members), it’s a special wine that’s quite unique.

Summerwood 2010 GSM Paso Robles

• SUMMERWOOD 2010 GSM PASO ROBLES :

This delightful red Rhone wine is labeled GSM for its blend of 59 percent Grenache, 27 percent Syrah, and 14 percent Mourvedre. It’s so well balanced it does a great job of hiding its higher alcohol level. Despite that, it’s a pretty wine that’s layered with notes of blackberries, plums, red cherries, spice, leather, and herbs that lingers deliciously long on the palate. It’s drinkable alone and great with food, so pair it with leg of lamb, grilled steak with chimichurri sauce, and most wild game dishes. It’s a special occasion wine for most of us at $40 retail, available at the Hwy. 46 West tasting room, but one you’ll find worth opening for any celebration.