Tablas Creek 'Espirit Blanc' Rousanne, 2023 Paso Robles, California

Founded in 1989, Tablas Creek is the culmination of a friendship between the Perrin family of Château de Beaucastel and the Haas family, who chose Paso Robles for its similarities to the Southern Rhône and imported vine cuttings from Beaucastel. The 2023 Esprit Blanc is considered "one of the great white wines that you will taste on the West Coast," showcasing their biodynamic and organic certified vineyards in a wine that exemplifies California's Rhône movement.

Tasting Notes

A powerful nose of lanolin and honeycomb, lemongrass and orange blossom, like the world's most luxurious antique furniture polish. The palate is lively, rich but still light on its feet, with flavors of vanilla custard, fresh apricot, citrus pith, marmalade, and green herbs. The finish leaves lingering notes of grilled pineapple and green herbs. Bourboulenc provides limestoney, citrusy lift, while Picpoul Blanc adds pineapple brightness and saline minerality.

Pairs With

Cooked shellfish (lobster, soft-shell crab, shrimp), Roasted or grilled vegetables, Baked clams, Blackened swordfish

Ratings

97 pts Owen Bargreen (2025), 95 pts James Suckling (Sep. 2024), 94+ pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Oct. 2025)