2011 L'Aventure Cote A Cote

Dark red cherry, plum, cloves and menthol all flesh out in the Côte à Côte, a blend of 40% Syrah, 38% Mourvèdre and 22% Grenache. Pliant and expressive on the palate, the 2011 offers lovely depth and juiciness but with the restraint that is the hallmark of this long, cool growing season. With time in the glass, the 2011 turns darker and spicier. The mid-weight style suggests the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. This is a gorgeous wine from L'Aventure.

(40% syrah, 38% mourvedre and 22% grenache): Inky ruby. Heady aromas of black raspberry, blueberry and incense, with a hint of pipe tobacco in the background. Sappy, rich and seamless in texture, offering intense dark berry compote, licorice and black olive flavors that become spicier with air. Closes on a smoky note, with excellent clarity and breadth and silky, fully absorbed tannins.

A blend of 40% Syrah, 38% Mourvedre and 22% Grenache aged in half new and half one-year-old barrels, the 2011 Cote a Cote is stunning. Full-bodied and decadent, yet oh so light on its feet and even elegant, it offers classic Paso fruit, smoked meat, chocolate and licorice as well as a seamless feel, sweet tannin and a blockbuster finish. It will have 10-12 years of ultimate longevity. Drink now-2023. I was blown away by these wines. Easily the most impressive lineup I’ve tasted from proprietor Stephan Asseo, these 2011s show the purity and focus of the vintage, yet balance it with incredible richness and texture that never seems cumbersome or heavy. The 2012s are no less rich, yet have impeccable purity and texture, as well as brilliant overall focus and structure that will allow them to evolve gracefully. Make no mistake about it though, these are all big, ripe wines; I find them utterly compelling and hard to resist. Tel. (805) 227-1588; www.aventurewine.com