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Halter Ranch Vineyard 2008 Cotes de Paso - Review

Paso Robles, California

Our Selection for Wine of the Week February 20, 2012


A bottle of Halter Ranch Vineyard 2008 Cotes de Paso, our wine of the week

Halter Ranch Vineyard
2008 Côtes de Paso

Paso Robles, CA

Situated on a property that dates back to the 1880s, Halter Ranch is steeped in Paso Robles history, yet the winery is regarded at as one of Paso's up-and-comers. It was planted with vines in 2000, when it was purchased and renovated into a state-of-the-art winemaking facility by Swiss-born businessman Hansjörg Wyss. Planted on steep, south- facing slopes, the vineyard is host to a wide variety of Bordeaux and Rhône varietals. Currently, Halter Ranch produces more than ten different bottlings, including a Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, rosé and several European-inspired blends. The 2008 Côtes de Paso is a blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Counoise and Cinsault inspired by Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The nose offers berry and espresso with underlying herbal aromas of sage and thyme. At the front of the palate, blackberry and black currant flavors dominate with more earthy notes of bramble, coffee and wild game coming out toward the finish. Try it with hearty but simple winter dishes like roast duckling, roast beef or shepherd's pie. It would also work well with vegetarian dishes like a lentil stew or a quinoa salad with winter vegetables and fresh herbs.

Rating: 14/20
Price:
$30


Other Rhône varietals we have tasted
Check out our Paso Robles Travel Guide

For more information, visit www.halterranch.com


See also:
Tasting Notes on Halter Ranch Vineyard 2010 Côtes de Paso Blanc

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