2011 Epoch Ingenuity

The 2011 Ingenuity is 55% Syrah, 17% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre and the balance Petite Sirah. Aged in barrels and puncheons, it offers a gorgeous, seamless, layered and full-bodied style to go with notes of black raspberry, chocolate, spice-box and hints of pepper. I love the overall purity here, and it’s incredibly silky and polished on the palate, with fine tannin. Enjoy this beauty over the coming 7-8 years. I was blown away by these 2011s from winemaker Jordan Fiorentini, and they showed uncommon depth and richness in the vintage. For the most part, they’re ready to go, yet should evolve gracefully. Moving on to the reds and starting with the 2011s, these showed beautifully from barrel, and didn’t disappoint from bottle. They’re up there with the creme de la creme of the vintage. The 2012s are tighter, with a chewier, savory tannin profile that will be something to watch. They’ll need a year or two in the cellar once released. Tel. (805) 237-2011; www.epochwines.com

The 2011 Ingenuity is quite pretty in this vintage. Dark red cherry, plum, cloves, menthol and new leather meld together in a supple, vibrant wine with terrific balance of fruit and acidity. Fine, silky tannins support the juicy, expressive finish. The blend is 55% Syrah, 17% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre and 13% Petite Sirah.

(55% syrah, 17% grenache, 15% mourvedre and 13% petite sirah; 45% new oak): Dark purple. Sexy smoke- and spice-accented aromas of black and blue fruits and potpourri, with a suggestion of incense building with air. Lush and expansive in the mouth, offering deeply pitched but lively cassis and mulberry flavors and a suave floral pastille nuance. The spice and floral notes come back strong on the finish, framed by smooth, harmonious tannins.