Project Paso Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Full-bodied red wine · Project Paso
Vintage: 2023
Type
Full-bodied red wine
Producer
Project Paso
Country
United States
Vintage
2023
Region & Appellation
California, Central Coast, Paso Robles AVA
Grape Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon
Color & Appearance
Deep ruby-purple core with bright magenta highlights, opaque center, and medium viscosity with slow-moving legs that stain the glass, indicating a youthful and concentrated wine.
Aroma Profile
Intense primary aromas of ripe black cherry, blackberry, and cassis, complemented by secondary notes of sweet vanilla, mocha, and toasted oak, with subtle undertones of fresh eucalyptus and baking spices.
Tasting Notes
A bold and forward initial palate impression offering a surge of lush dark fruit, followed by a mid-palate rich with cocoa and warm spice. The finish is medium-long, warming, and clean, leaving lingering impressions of blackberry jam and toasted oak.
Flavor Profile
Dominated by rich blackberry, black cherry, and plum fruit flavors, intertwined with savory notes of cedar, espresso bean, black pepper, and a touch of sweet vanilla from oak influence.
Body & Texture
Full-bodied with a plush, velvety texture and a generous, mouth-filling presence that balances extract and weight smoothly.
Acidity & Tannins
Medium acidity provides a refreshing lift to the rich fruit, while tannins are velvety and approachable, offering a smooth grip without harsh astringency.
Sweetness Level
Dry, with rich ripe fruit perceptions giving a subtly plush impression on the palate.
Alcohol Content
13.5% to 14.5% ABV, contributing a pleasant warming sensation that enhances the wine's rich, robust body.
Aging & Oak
Aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for several months to impart subtle notes of toast, vanilla, and spice while preserving vibrant fruit character.
Food Pairings
Ideal with grilled ribeye steak, roasted lamb chops, rich mushroom burgers, hard aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda, and hearty barbecue dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 60-65°F (15-18°C) in a large Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 30 minutes to an hour will help open up the aromas and soften the initial tannins.
Price Range
$15 - $25
Quality Assessment
An approachable, everyday premium wine offering great value, consistently delivering accessible Paso Robles typicity and crowd-pleasing fruit intensity.
Production Methods
Traditional destemming and crushing followed by temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation with regular pump-overs for optimal color and tannin extraction, then brief oak aging.
Terroir
Paso Robles experiences warm sunny days and cool evening breezes drawn in from the Pacific Ocean through the Templeton Gap, allowing grapes to achieve full ripeness while retaining balanced acidity.
History & Heritage
Created to showcase the rich and expressive potential of Paso Robles fruit through accessible, fruit-forward winemaking styles.
Interesting Facts
The label features bold, modern typography and vibrant botanical artwork that reflects the contemporary and energetic style of California Central Coast winemaking.
Cellaring Potential
Best enjoyed within 2 to 5 years of the vintage to appreciate its vibrant fruit and plush texture, though it will hold nicely in steady cellar conditions.
Similar Wines
J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon, Daou Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, Justin Cabernet Sauvignon